Climatex offers technologies for circular textiles

(CONNECT) Climatex offers circular solutions for the textile circular economy. Accordingly, the company based in Altendorf in the canton of Schwyz in Switzerland has adopted the motto of “Design for Disassembly” when it comes to its approach to creating environmentally friendly, functional and durable textiles. Climatex has developed two technologies that can disassemble textiles into their original components at the end of their life cycle: Dualcycle and Stitchlock.

According to a press release, this means that the numerous materials used in clothing, such as seams, linings, zippers and adhesives, can be recovered individually in a simple and environmentally friendly way. This is vital due to the fact that recycling facilities require unmixed materials.

Stitchlock is a sewing thread that ensures that the disassembly of ready-made textile products is taken into account and made possible right from the start of the production process. The yarn can be dissolved by way of high temperatures, pressure and water, thereby breaking down the product into its individual parts. Stitchlock was launched in the fall of 2024 and just a few weeks later was named as the winner of an ISPO Textrends Award and the PCIAW Circular Technology Award.

Dualcycle enables solvent-free, pure separation of mixed fabrics. This means that two or more materials are blended to form a mixed fabric by way of something the company calls a textile screw. High temperatures, pressure and water loosen these screws, meaning that they can be unraveled again. As Climatex states, “this globally unique technology provides a solution to one of the biggest problems in the textile industry”.

Up to now, the company has offered upholstery fabrics as well as textiles for public transport and the automotive industry. According to the company, circular fabrics for everyday life, sport and work are currently in the process of being developed. ce/mm