The Microfibre Consortium report titled: ‘Root Cause Analysis: Unravelling the Root Causes Behind Fibre Fragmentation in Textiles’ aimed to enhance the foundational knowledge of why fibres break down by methodically evaluating the roles played by material composition, textile structure, yarn variety, colouring processes, and both mechanical and chemical treatments.
Using standardised testing results alongside an extensive and varied set of data with precise fabric details, the study offered insights to reduce textile fibre breakdown from the way textiles are created and produced.
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Employing machine learning strategies and random forest (RF) analysis, the investigation evaluated and contrasted the impact of numerous factors in tandem.
The study used The Microfibre Data Portal, which includes over 1,000 diverse tested fabrics, to pinpoint specific attributes of fabrics linked to fibre separation in completed textiles. It highlighted the finishing process as an important but previously overlooked point for potential improvements.
The Microfibre Consortium believes the results will help manufacturers apply preventive measures early in production that diminish ecological harm without compromising on the performance of the fabric.
The Microfibre Consortium CEO Dr Kelly Sheridan said: “The publication of this report marks a significant milestone in the fashion and textile industry’s efforts to address the challenge of fibre fragmentation. The research has been extensive and robust, which is only possible thanks to the collective data contributions of our signatories.
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By GlobalData“We’re proud to lead this global effort, but the path forward depends on continued collaboration and the sustained support of companies that sign the Microfibre 2030 Commitment. With this data, we’re closer than ever to meaningful solutions.”
With the publication of its recent findings, TMC is now transitioning to the subsequent phase of its research agenda. Future studies will seek to fill existing knowledge voids with scientific precision, leading to actionable guidance for industry stakeholders.
Additionally, TMC anticipates harnessing machine learning to forecast fibre shedding trends, thereby enhancing material design and proactive industry practices.
TMC spearheads the Microfibre 2030 Commitment and Roadmap, aiming to reduce fibre fragment loss from textiles through international cooperation. It stands as the sole entity dedicated to this issue, representing a network of 95 affiliates including brands, retailers, suppliers, and research institutions.
