Investigation of the biodegradability of cotton textiles

Client: Paptex Textilhandels GmbH

Implementation period: November 2020 to October 2021

Project description:

In this project, the biodegradability of organic cotton textiles is being investigated. Their complete, residue-free degradation at the end of their use is a basic prerequisite for a planned sustainable take-back and recycling system for these textiles. This is the subject of a master's thesis currently being carried out at the Environmental Engineering Department - specialising in waste and resource management. In addition to presenting the current state of knowledge on the biodegradation of textile fibres, current information on the cascading use of used textiles is also part of the theoretical basis of the thesis. In the practical part in the laboratory, various methods for investigating the biodegradability of organic cotton textiles are tested and validated. This includes investigations into their aerobic and anaerobic degradation behaviour and the microorganisms and fungi involved. A further aim is to ensure the practical suitability of the methods for long-term monitoring of a wide range of fibres and products. The information obtained will ultimately serve as a basis for the development of suitable take-back systems for these textiles at the end of their life and their subsequent recycling in accordance with the European waste hierarchy.

Contact:

University of Innsbruck
Dr Sabine Robra
Technikerstrasse 13
6020 Innsbruck
sabine.robra@uibk.ac.at