New fiber-dyeing method ditches use of water

Sweden-based fiber specialist WeAreSpinDye has teamed up with color authority NCS to come up with a sustainable method of dyeing synthetic fibers without the use of water and heavy chemicals.

The process involves mixing melted recycled plastic with the dyeing pigment and base material. The result is spun into thread then woven into textiles with the desired strengths and widths. The fabrics can be used for pants, jackets, backpacks and other fashion accessories.

According to the company, the conventional dyeing process necessitates 100 to 150L of water per kilogram of fabric. This poses great environmental risks, especially in a number of major textile-producing countries where there are insufficient restrictions, including China and Bangladesh. In fact, in a recent study by global environmental-protection organization Greenpeace, it found out that about two-thirds of all rivers and lakes in China are classified as polluted.

WeAreSpinDye is aiming to change the situation by offering a technology that suits all synthetic materials, including polyester, nylon and rayon. Additionally, manufacturers can apply a range of finishes to improve functional features.

Because the fabrics are yarn-dyed, they have a high level colorfastness. The company said that the hues can withstand extreme UV radiation. Currently, WeAreSpinDye offers about 2,000 different shades.