On May 8th, 2025, the premises of the Textile Science and Technology Center (2C2T) at the University of Minho hosted a key moment for sustainable innovation in the textile sector: the workshop of the project COMPETE2030-FEDER-00585800 no. 1445 “yarns FS – Development of a portfolio of sustainable functional yarns based on long fibers.”
The “yarns FS” project aims to develop yarns made from recycled long fibers with enhanced durability, as well as emerging natural fibers such as pineapple and banana fibers. Simultaneously, the project includes a study on the environmental impact of incorporating these materials into the spinning processes at Fiação da Graça SA (FDG).
Partners and collaboration
The workshop brought together the research teams from Sciencentris, InnoFiber Research Lab, and FDG, all partners in this consortium. The session opened with a presentation by the InnoFiber team showcasing the group’s broad capabilities, ranging from natural fiber extraction and recycling of textile and footwear waste, to bioactive compound extraction from marine residues, development of filtration membranes, and filament production for biomedical applications.
Focus on sustainable textile processes
This workshop focused particularly on the latest advancements in sustainable textile practices. Trials were conducted to mechanically defiber textile waste from FDG clients, highlighting how process optimization influences the length of the recovered fibers, a crucial parameter for successful spinning. For shorter fibers, the InnoFiber team emphasized alternatives such as nonwoven textiles, which play an essential role in sectors like construction, footwear, and apparel.
In addition, lab-scale spinning trials were carried out using recycled fibers, with adjustments to equipment parameters and a visual analysis of their effects on the final yarn. These tests demonstrated the feasibility of producing small sample batches, enabling the validation of fiber blends (emerging natural and recycled) and the assessment of key properties like mechanical strength and yarn uniformity.
Results, discussion and next steps
The workshop provided an opportunity to demystify processes related to natural fiber extraction and textile waste recycling, while encouraging collaborative discussion around the results achieved so far. The session concluded with a strategic meeting outlining the next development steps and aligning efforts toward the creation of final yarn prototypes.
A shared vision for a sustainable future
This partnership between Sciencentris, InnoFiber Research Lab, and FDG – Fiação da Graça SA reflects a shared commitment to driving ecological transformation in the textile value chain. By combining scientific research, industrial innovation, and environmental responsibility, the “yarns FS” project is a compelling example of how collaboration can generate real-world solutions to global sustainability challenges.
