UK-based Roberts Recycling is set to unveil a partnership with an advanced materials specialist to transform post-consumer clothing into a direct, drop-in substitute for wood fibre in medium-density fibreboard (MDF).

The process uses a proprietary method with two patents pending that converts woven or knitted textiles into a fibre that behaves like wood in MDF.

The project is in pilot, with commercial production targeted in around three years. This industrial timescale outpaces many UK fibre-to-fibre ventures.

Roberts Recycling has secured exclusivity as the first textile-recycling partner and is already in early talks with global fashion brands about potential involvement with the project. The company is now looking to connect with:

• Fashion & retail brands with textile waste streams
• Furniture & interiors brands exploring circular raw materials

to be part of this project.

This is a rare opportunity for brands committed to sustainability and circularity to get involved in a game-changing solution that tackles two global issues at once:

• Deforestation
• Textile and fashion waste

Repurposed textiles can run on today’s MDF lines without additional machinery, opening a plug-and-play route into a US$45–60bn global market.

Feedstock applicable for the process includes cotton T-shirts, denim and viscose jerseys, but also polyester garments, provided they are woven or knit.

The project is potentially a world first in its ability to offer MDF makers a feedstock from recycled apparel.

Roberts Recycling would like to hear from interested clothing brands prior to the full public release – get in touch before 21 October to find out more by emailing john@robertsrecycling.co.uk

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