Research Focus of SUSCATEX
Mission
SUSCATEX is a research project funded by the Spanish Ministry that promotes the transition to a circular economy in the textile sector. Its goal is to develop sustainable chemo-catalytic processes to transform cotton textile waste into high-value chemical products, reducing environmental impact and dependence on fossil resources.
The project combines scientific innovation with sustainability principles, fostering technology transfer to industry and training researchers in clean technologies. SUSCATEX contributes to European objectives for decarbonization and sustainable waste management.
SUSCATEX objectives
The main objective of SUSCATEX is to design and optimize chemo-catalytic pathways to convert cotton textile waste into valuable chemicals for the synthesis of polymers and other sustainable materials. This goal will be achieved through a structured work plan divided into interconnected phases.
Textile waste fraction
Using Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES), to efficiently and sustainably separate cellulose and other components.
Catalytic conversion of cellulose
Into diols and lactones, using innovative technologies such as mechanocatalysis and selective oxidation.
Synthesis polymers
From recovered monomers and improve recycled polyester, assesing properties and uses.
Comprehensive sustainability assesment
Including LCA and TEA to ensure the environmental and economic viability of the process.
Work Plan
The project is structured into eight work packages (WP) covering all stages of the "textile refinery" concept:
