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Industrial Technology Research Institute

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Eco-Friendly Waterproof & Moisture-Permeable Membrane From Recycled Textiles

Technology Overview

Eco-Friendly Waterproof & Moisture-Permeable Membr
Eco-Friendly Waterproof & Moisture-Permeable Membr

According to statistics, over 75% of discarded clothing ends up in landfills or incineration, posing a significant burden on the environment. In response to global sustainability goals and the European Green Deal, the textile industry is actively promoting a "textile-to-textile recycling" model, which focuses on regenerating fibers from used textiles. This approach aims to establish a closed-loop material system that reduces carbon emissions and minimizes reliance on virgin resources.

Our core technology lies in the chemical recycling and regeneration of composite textiles made of polyester (PET) and polyurethane (PU), transforming them into functional membranes with waterproof and breathable properties. These recycled membranes can be widely applied in high-performance apparel that requires waterproofing, windproofing, and breathability. This approach not only ensures environmental sustainability but also delivers functional performance, enabling high-value circular utilization of textile waste.

Applications & Benefits

This technology has been successfully validated on a production-scale coating line, demonstrating both stable processing and consistent performance. The resulting waterproof and breathable membrane offers excellent functionality, with a hydrostatic resistance of ≥15,000 mmH₂O (JIS L 1092 B method) and a moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) of ≥100,000 g/m²·24hr (JIS L 1099 B1 method).
The membrane contains 20% recycled content and complies with the Global Recycled Standard (GRS). When laminated with textile substrates, the final fabric achieves enhanced performance-hydrostatic resistance of ≥20,000 mmH₂O and MVTR of ≥20,000 g/m²·24hr-meeting the high-performance requirements of the functional apparel market for both protection and comfort.

 These recycled membranes can be widely applied in high-performance apparel that requires waterproofing, windproofing, and breathability.
These recycled membranes can be widely applied in high-performance apparel that requires waterproofing, windproofing, and breathability.