kiertokangas

Kiertokangas is a Finnish term that translates to "recycled fabric" or "recycled textile." It refers to materials that have been made from post-consumer or post-industrial textile waste. The process typically involves collecting used textiles, sorting them by fiber type and color, and then mechanically or chemically processing them to create new fibers or yarns. These recycled fibers can then be used to manufacture new fabrics for a variety of applications.

The use of kiertokangas is a significant aspect of the circular economy within the textile industry. It aims to reduce the environmental impact associated with textile production, such as water consumption, energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions. By diverting textiles from landfills, recycling them into new materials, and thereby decreasing the demand for virgin raw materials, kiertokangas contributes to resource conservation and waste reduction.

The quality and properties of kiertokangas can vary depending on the original source materials and the recycling method used. Mechanical recycling often involves shredding textiles into fibers, which can sometimes result in shorter staple lengths and a slightly rougher texture compared to virgin fibers. Chemical recycling, on the other hand, aims to break down textile fibers to their molecular level, allowing for the creation of new, high-quality fibers that can be very similar to their virgin counterparts. Applications for kiertokangas range from clothing and home textiles to industrial uses like insulation and cleaning cloths.