RECYCLING OF PRE-CONSUMER WOOL WASTE: FIBER LENGTH OPTIMIZATION FOR A CLOSED-LOOP CIRCULAR ECONOMY

This study investigates fiber length retention in wool blend fabrics, with a focus on the com- parative performance of Single Jersey and Interlock knitted patterns, as well as on the influence of loop length variation in Single Jersey fabrics, a critical structural parameter, on fiber preser- vation during the cutting process prior to recycling. Single Jersey samples were systematically produced with different loop lengths under controlled conditions, while Interlock was analyzed as a benchmark for its dense structure and superior retention properties. The research highlights the critical relationship between fabric structure, loop configuration, and cutting dimensions in minimizing fiber loss. Findings demonstrate that loop length plays a significant role in determin- ing fiber retention, with structural variations in Single Jersey fabrics impacting their recycling performance relative to Interlock. By establishing optimized parameters for loop length and cutting dimensions, this study provides valuable insights for improving recycling methodologies for pre-consumer wool waste. These results contribute to the advancement of sustainable tex- tile recycling practices, supporting the transition to a closed-loop circular economy by reducing material waste and enhancing resource efficiency.