Uncover Elastane

October 19, 2026

AI-Based Detection and Sorting of Hidden Elastane to Enable Material-Based Textile-to-Textile Recycling

A major challenge for the textile circular economy is the wide variety of material blends found in clothing and other textiles. In order to turn old textiles into new fibers and products, the different materials often must first be separated from one another. Elastane, which provides stretch and comfort in many textiles, is particularly problematic in this regard.

While materials such as polyester or polyamide can be melted down and recycled, this is not readily possible with elastane. Even small amounts of elastane significantly complicate recycling and often prevent textiles from being processed into new yarns and fabrics.

The goal of the project is to develop a demonstrator for a high-precision, AI-supported analysis method based on mid-infrared (MIR) laser technology. This will enable the rapid and reliable detection of elastane content in textiles, even when it is concealed or encased by other fibers. In the future, the technology is intended to help sort used textiles more effectively and direct them more efficiently toward recycling.

The Augsburg Institute for Textile Technology (ITA) is pursuing two central goals: First, a mechanical recycling process for textile waste containing elastane is being developed to enable fiber-to-fiber recycling. Second, the groundwork is being laid for a digital product passport that will provide information on

material composition and sustainability throughout the entire product life cycle.
Together with partners from research and industry, the project is working to significantly improve the recyclability of textiles and to create important prerequisites for a functioning circular economy in the textile sector.

Link: https://www.ita-augsburg.com/projekt/uncover-elastane/