Separation Method of Disentangled Protein/Cellulose/Synthetic Fibres

Protein (wool or silk) fibres is one of the most commonly used textile materials. It is often mixed with other materials in textile manufacturing. This project uses the triboelectric effect to separate protein fibres from textile waste by a special treatment other than hydrothermal, biological or mechanical methods.

• A fibre disentangler and a separation chamber connected with copper helix pipes in which triboelectric effect occurs and fibres are charged
• Two high potential plate electrodes of opposing polarity in the chamber to separate protein fibres (positively charged) and other synthetic fibres (negatively charged)
• A dry separation process without involving water or chemicals and thus the recovered fibres do not need to be cleaned and dried up before use

• A waterless and chemical-free extraction of protein fibres from textile waste
• Making recycled protein fibres ready for re-dyeing and re-weaving to form new textiles
• A more sustainable option over the use of virgin fibres to reduce greenhouse gases.

• Silver Medal in the Special Edition 2021 Inventions Geneva Evaluation Days

• Textile recycling

• 202111181117