US gov’s new NIST database aims to reduce textile waste

Desk Report 5 hours agoLast Updated: January 8, 2025

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Researcher Amanda Forster stands in her lab looking at near-infrared spectroscopy data obtained from clothing and textile samples. Credit: A. Boss/NIST

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has announced the release of its “NIR-SORT” database, a pioneering tool designed to enhance the recycling process of textiles and clothing. This development comes in response to the alarming statistic that approximately 85% of used garments and textiles are relegated to landfills or incineration, contributing significantly to environmental pollution.

The NIR-SORT database comprises the molecular “fingerprints” of various fabrics, obtained through near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. This technology enables the rapid and precise identification of textile types, a critical step in the recycling process. Accurate sorting of textiles is essential, as different materials require distinct recycling methods. Traditional manual sorting is labor-intensive and prone to errors, often leading to the contamination of recyclable materials and reducing the quality of recycled products.

A clothing sample is analyzed using an analytical lab technique called near-infrared spectroscopy. The method measures how much of the light passes through or scatters off the fabric, producing a unique pattern — a sort of fingerprint that can identify the types of fibers in clothing.Credit: A. Boss/NIST

Amanda Forster, a researcher at NIST, emphasized the significance of this advancement: “The ability to accurately identify fabric types is crucial for effective recycling. With the NIR-SORT database, we can develop automated systems capable of sorting large volumes of textiles efficiently, thereby reducing the environmental impact of textile waste.”

NIST researchers have developed a database that contains the molecular “fingerprints” of different kinds of fabrics. Some of the clothing and textile samples for the database are shown here. Credit: A. Boss/NIST

The implementation of the NIR-SORT database is expected to facilitate the development of automated sorting technologies. These systems can quickly scan and identify fabric types on a large scale, significantly improving the efficiency and accuracy of the recycling process. By streamlining sorting, the database aims to reduce the volume of textiles that end up in landfills, promoting a more sustainable and circular economy.

This initiative aligns with global efforts to address the growing environmental concerns associated with textile waste. The fashion industry, known for its substantial environmental footprint, stands to benefit from such technological advancements. Improved recycling processes can lead to a reduction in the demand for virgin materials, conserving resources and minimizing pollution