A yarn manufacturer known for its recycled and synthetic offerings, Unifi launched Repreve, a brand of recycled fibers incorporating Ciclo's biodegradable technology at the Functional Fabrics Fair.

Ciclo’s patented biodegradable technology allows synthetic materials to break down naturally in the environment. The technology is compatible with both filament and staple polyester, as well as nylon.

A result of Unifi’s collaboration with Intrinsic Advanced Materials, a JV between Parkdale Advanced Materials and Intrinsic Textiles Group, the Repreve with Ciclo technology addresses the global issue of synthetic microfiber shedding by providing a globally accessible solution for mills, brands, and retailers to reduce microplastic fiber pollution, states Eddie Ingle, CEO, Unifi.

The Repreve with Ciclo technology enables synthetic fibers to naturally biodegrade when exposed to moisture and microorganisms for extended periods. This significantly reduces the amount of time synthetic fibers, which contribute to microplastics, persist in the environment.

The Ciclo technology is currently being used by several sustainable brands in their products, including Target, Bass Pro Shops, Billabong, and Champion.

Cheryl Smyre,  Vice President, Parkdale Advanced Materials, says, tackling this challenge requires collaboration across the industry Combining two powerful solutions – Repreve and Ciclo , this joint initiative helps maximize the use of recycled content while addressing microfiber pollution at its origin.

Unifi now plans to produce all of its Repreve-branded products with the Ciclo additive, including Repreve Takeback and Repreve Our Ocean.

Unifi showcased these new products at Booth 815 at the Functional Fabric Fair, held at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland.