Unifi launches Repreve with Ciclo technology

Unifi Inc., a Greensboro, North Carolina-based maker of recycled and synthetic yarns such as its Repreve product, has launched Repreve with Ciclo technology—recycled polyester and nylon embedded with a biodegradable technology that enables synthetics to break down naturally.

Unifi says Repreve with Ciclo technology was created in collaboration with Intrinsic Advanced Materials LLC, a joint venture between Parkdale Advanced Materials Inc. and Hayward, California-based Intrinsic Textiles Group LLC.

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The new technology is enhanced with a patented additive at the fiber level that allows synthetic yarns to more closely mimic natural materials such as wool, Unifi says, adding that this will enable the yarns to break down in environments such as soil and seawater without compromising performance, durability and dyeability. The company says its new offerings are designed to help tackle the environmental impact of microplastic fiber pollution from synthetic textile shedding.

“We can always do more to lessen our environmental impact throughout the product life cycle,” Unifi CEO Eddie Ingle says. “Our collaboration with Intrinsic Advanced Materials addresses the worldwide issue of synthetic microfiber shedding by providing a globally available solution that mills, brands and retailers can now integrate to reduce microplastic fiber pollution.”

Unifi says its Repreve with Ciclo offering enables synthetic fibers to naturally biodegrade under prolonged exposure to moisture and microorganisms, significantly reducing the time synthetic fibers remain in the environment. Today, the company says products containing Ciclo are utilized by “forward-thinking, sustainable brands,” including Bass Pro Shops, Billabong, Champion, Oakley and Target.

“Synthetic textiles are a major contributor to microplastic fiber pollution, and it is a challenge that requires industry collaboration,” says Cheryl Smyre, vice president of Gastonia, North Carolina-based Parkdale Advanced Materials. “This joint initiative integrates two powerful solutions—Repreve and Ciclo technology—to help maximize recycled content while addressing microfiber pollution at the source. As brands navigate growing sustainability commitments and regulatory demands, the collaboration delivers a proven and effective solution that empowers brands to address two critical environmental issues while preserving performance and recyclability.”

Unifi says all its Repreve-branded products can be produced with the Ciclo additive, including Repreve Takeback and Repreve Our Ocean, and is available globally.

The company is showcasing Repreve with Ciclo at Booth 815, and Ciclo technology will be located at Booth 712 during the Functional Fabric Fair, taking place April 14-16 in the Oregon Convention Center in Portland.