Textiles Biodegradation Testing

Biodegradation of textiles refers to the process by which fabrics are broken down by the action of living organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, into simpler substances like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. This natural process is pivotal in mitigating the environmental impact of textile waste, which is a growing concern due to the increasing pollution in landfills and oceans. Scientifically, biodegradation is significant as it involves the enzymatic breakdown of complex polymers into simpler compounds that can be re-integrated into the ecosystem without causing harm.

The textiles industry, which contributes a significant portion of global waste, is thus under scrutiny to develop materials that are not only safe for consumers but also degrade efficiently post-use, aligning with environmental sustainability goals. From a scientific perspective, the biodegradation of textiles is influenced by several factors, including the chemical composition of the fibers, environmental conditions, and the presence of microorganisms capable of breaking down these materials.

Fig. 1 Textile disposal by linear and circular processes. (Egan J., et al., 2022)

Methods of Textiles Biodegradation Testing

• Visual and Microscopic Analysis
  Visual assessments are complemented by microscopic techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy. These analyses provide detailed images of the textile's surface before and after biodegradation, illustrating changes in fiber morphology and structure.
• Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR)
  FT-IR is used to detect chemical changes in textile materials during biodegradation. By analyzing the absorption spectra, researchers can identify the formation of new functional groups and the degradation of existing ones, providing insights into the biochemical processes at play.
• Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)
  TGA measures the thermal stability of textile samples as they degrade. By subjecting samples to controlled heating, researchers can quantify weight loss at various temperatures, which correlates with the degree of biodegradation.
• Weight Loss Measurement
  The mass loss of textile samples is quantified at regular intervals to assess biodegradation rates. This data is crucial for determining the efficiency of microbial action and the overall degradation timeline for different textile materials.

Our Services

At CD BioSciences, we offer a comprehensive suite of textile biodegradation testing services designed to help clients navigate the complex landscape of environmental sustainability. We are able to simulate the natural degradation process of textiles under controlled conditions, including:

Soil Burial Tests

Textile samples are buried in soil, and their rate of decomposition is measured over time.

Composting

Similar to soil burial, textiles are composted under controlled conditions to assess their biodegradation.

Anaerobic Digestion

This method assesses the breakdown of textiles in the absence of oxygen, simulating landfill conditions.

Enzymatic Hydrolysis

Specific enzymes are used to break down textile materials, and the rate of degradation is measured.

Test Indicators We Can Provide

• Biodegradation Rate: Measured as a percentage of mass loss over time.
• Microbial Activity: Assessment of microbial populations involved in the degradation process.
• Chemical Composition Changes: Evaluated through FT-IR spectrometry to detect new functional groups and structural changes.
• Physical Integrity: Changes in tensile strength and structural integrity quantified through mechanical testing.
• Environmental Impact Assessment: Evaluating the end products of biodegradation to ensure they are non-toxic and environmentally benign.

Why Choose Us?

Through our scientifically rigorous and client-focused approach, CD BioSciences is committed to providing the insights necessary to make textiles more sustainable and Earth-friendly. If you are interested in our services, please contact us for more information.

Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.