Recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) Testing

WHAT IS RECYCLED POLYESTER (rPET)?

Recycled polyester is commonly known as rPET. It is obtained by melting down plastics (e.g. PET bottles) and converting it to polyester fibres. The production of recycled polyester uses less resources than new fibres and generates less carbon emissions.

Recycled polyester has been increasingly used by many brands as an environmental marketing claim on their apparel & footwear articles. Importers and brands may want to create higher value-added articles with recycled materials so as to cater to the needs of environmentally conscious individuals.

WHY IS TESTING FOR RECYCLED POLYESTER IMPORTANT?

Marketers must ensure that all interpretations of their claims are truthful, not misleading, and supported by a reasonable basis. If the textile clothing is partially made of recycled polyester, the marketer should clearly and prominently state it. There are various laws around the world to protect consumer from false or deceptive marketing claim.

A reasonable basis often requires competent and reliable scientific evidence. Such evidence consists of tests, analyses, research or studies that have been conducted and evaluated in an objective manner by qualified persons.

The textile industry is moving towards circularity principles such as reducing waste and increasing secondary material use. This service provides manufacturers and brands with the ability to technically and independently substantiate sustainability / circularity claims around the material recycled content of products.

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TÜV SÜD ENSURES THAT THE PERCENTAGE RANGE OF RECYCLED POLYESTER USED IS ACCURATE

TÜV SÜD has developed a test method to identify “Recycled Polyester” fibre that is produced from recycled PET bottles.

The challenge is quantifying and determining the PET origin in polyester by analyzing Isophthalic Acid concentration using gas chromatography. Thereafter, using thermoanalytical techniques which further supports the differentiation of virgin polyester and recycled polyester. This is a preferred method for manufacturers to substantiate the recycled polyester claims as it is fast, cost-effective and highly selective to hydrocarbons.

Your business benefits

	Minimise time to market – By using highly efficient testing methods to ensure that your apparel and footwear articles have the same quantity of “recycled polyester” as claimed and can be sold in your target markets
	Reduce your business risks by ensuring sustainability claims are accurate and true
	Satisfy procurement requirements and customer expectations for sustainable products
	Increase customer confidence in your product with greater transparency
	Differentiate your product with testing from an independent third party

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