Overseeing and running Swisstex California as Dyehouse manager and then as Technical Director gave me for 25 years an unparallel volume of experience in efficient and sustainable textile manufacturing, digital color management and the development of advanced dyeing processes.
Author: STRC Admin
State of Textile Recycling: Challenges, Opportunities, and the Path Forward
Textile waste is a growing challenge, yet its recyclability remains limited due to complex material compositions, market constraints, and infrastructure gaps. In this session, we’ll examine the scale of the challenge, where textile waste goes once discarded, and the critical distinction between discard and disposal.
Updates on Recycling and Repurposing Cotton Textile Waste: Cotton to Sugar Project
This presentation will review and update the efforts by Cotton Incorporated to obtain glucose from cotton textile waste. Cotton fiber is nearly pure cellulose, a natural polymer composed of many glucose units. Research has shown that glucose can be readily obtained from cotton textile waste through enzymatic hydrolysis.
Custom Circularity Models and Understanding the Process
In this presentation, “Custom Circularity Models and Understanding the Process,” we will explore the importance of developing tailored circularity models within the textile industry. We will discuss the process of designing and implementing these custom solutions, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities they present. By delving into the need for personalized approaches, I will explain why a one-size-fits-all solution can be difficult and how custom circularity models can drive greater sustainability, efficiency, and innovation in the industry.
Stephen Aber
Stephen Aber is the Marketing and Communications Manager at the Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF), one of the largest sources of private research funding in North America for sustainable materials management. He plays a key role in disseminating EREF’s research and facilitating dialogue within the industry.
Michele Wallace
For twenty-two years, Michele Wallace conducted textile chemistry research in the Product Development and Implementation division at Cotton Incorporated and participated in standards development to support the company’s research. During this time, Michele led the Analytical Services Lab and was the Chemical Safety Officer. She became engaged with life cycle assessment (LCA) in 2010 when Cotton Incorporated carried out the first global LCA of cotton fiber and fabric.
Matthew Farrell
Matthew Farrell, Ph.D., manager of textile chemistry research at Cotton Incorporated has over a decade of experience in cotton and textile chemistry and sustainable processes. Matt conducts and manages both internal and external research projects. He holds a master’s degree in textile chemistry and a doctorate in fiber and polymer science from North Carolina State University’s Wilson College of Textiles.
Bob Carswell
Bob Carswell is a founding member and the R&D Director at Material Return, a pioneering company dedicated to building a sustainable and socially responsible economy. Material Return focuses on custom circularity solutions for textile brands and manufacturers, leveraging worker-owned models and cutting-edge technology. Bob leads the development of custom circular yarns and products, working with his team to close the loop on textile waste in the U.S. while ensuring that workers play a central role in this emerging circular economy.
Amy Bircher Bruyn
Amy Bircher Bruyn is the CEO and Founder of MMI Textiles, Inc., a global industrial and custom textile supplier she established in 1997. With over 40 years of experience in the U.S. textile industry, Amy has driven innovation, expanded U.S. manufacturing, and strengthened domestic supply chains. She has successfully acquired three textile businesses, including her family’s company, NDW Textiles (formerly National Dye Works, Inc.), with her latest acquisition of Jason Mills LLC closing in December 2024.
STRC 2024 – Biggest Turnout in Years!
The 60th Southern Textile Research Conference (STRC) was outstanding. The presentations were excellent, and they filled out the theme of “Emerging Material Technologies and Processes” well. The attendance was the highest for the STRC in many years. Mr. Jeff Neuville, Director for the Manufacturing Solutions Center (MSC) at Catawba Valley Community College delivered the Keynote […]
