Researchers develop new methods for plastic and textile recycling

Scientists are advancing circular economy technologies by converting waste into functional materials. Researchers at the University of Vienna have developed a method to transform plastic waste—including polystyrene from packaging, polycarbonate from old CDs, and ABS from toys—into molecular sponges. By treating these materials with sulfuric acid, they create a porous network capable of atmospheric water harvesting. These sponges can absorb up to 60 percent of their weight in water in humid conditions and approximately 20 percent in desert-like environments, using solar heat to release the moisture.

In a separate development, researchers from the University of Amsterdam and the chemical company Avantium have optimized a process for recycling mixed textiles. Currently, only 1 percent of textiles are recycled into new clothing. The improved Dawn Technology process uses hydrochloric acid to break down cotton fibers into sugars, effectively separating them from polyester. The resulting sugars can be converted into chemical intermediates for bio-based plastics, while the polyester remains intact for further recycling.