Markers and signatures methods on textile materials – the possibility of evidence led manufacturing chain and possible uses in the context of textile recycling

A green image is becoming increasingly important for companies in the textile industry and recycling textiles is a problem because fibers are difficult to identify and therefore difficult to recycle. Especially the cross-linking of DNA and textile materials can achieve a significant benefit within the textile industry. In addition to DNA markers, alternatives like cryptographic marking, RFID technology, and other innovative approaches will be discussed. Markers and signature methods on textile materials are important for efficient recycling processes, but this topic has not yet been sufficiently researched. This review gives an overview of ongoing activities on signature methods and recycling approaches for textiles and focuses on the recycling of garments to address the challenges and solutions within the textile- and fashion industry.