The world’s first commercial-scale plant dedicated to producing loopamid®, a recycled polyamide 6 was launched by German chemical giant BASF in Shanghai, China. Having an annual capacity of 500 metric tons, this facility marks a significant step towards sustainable textile manufacturing.  

Highlighting the plant’s role in addressing global challenges, Stephan Kothrade, CTO, BASF says, the plant not only transforms textile waste into valuable resources but also promotes a circular economy. It generates the entire loopamid from textile waste, catering to the growing demand for sustainable polyamide 6 fibers in the textile industry.

Ramkumar Dhruva, President –Monomers Division, BASF, says, commercialization of polyamide 6 facilitates textile-to-textile recycling in various fabric blends, including those with elastane. This fiber is expected to contribute significantly to circular economy in the textile sector besides helping customers achieve sustainability goals, he adds.  

Both the new plant and loopamid products have received Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certification, assuring consumers and manufacturers of the recycled content and adherence to environmental and social standards.

Yarn manufacturers are already incorporating loopamid into their products.  

The Shanghai facility currently utilizes industrial textile waste, such as cutting scraps and defective pieces, collected from textile manufacturing. BASF plans to progressively increase the use of post-consumer textile waste, like end-of-life garments. Recycling these materials is challenging due to mixed fibers, dyes, and accessories.  

BASF is actively collaborating with partners to develop efficient collection and sorting systems for textile waste. They aim to expand the use of post-consumer waste in loopamid production, demonstrating a commitment to closing the textile loop and promoting sustainability.