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Advancing Textile Sorting with Hyperspectral Cameras

Advanced SWIR Spectroscopy for Next-Generation Fabric Identification

The textile industry is a dynamic realm where materials must be accurately sorted for recycling and sustainable practices. The proliferation of synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, and acrylic, blended fabrics, combining natural and synthetic fibers, as well as the presence of dyes and finishes have led to greater complications for the recyclability of textiles given their non-biodegradable nature. Discover below our cutting-edge solutions in overcoming these challenges, focusing on the accurate identification of textile blends.


Hyperspectral Cameras for Precision


Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) hyperspectral cameras are the key to achieve this heightened accuracy. The L-EOS 1.7 (900-1700 nm) and L-EOS 2.5 (900-2500 nm) cameras offer unparalleled spectral imaging capabilities, unveiling hidden information within textiles. Our benchmark study evaluates their performance in characterizing and classifying textile blends, aiming to enhance the industry's precision in handling complex materials.


The Significance of Hyperspectral Testing


Hyperspectral testing ensures meticulous control over textile illumination, ensuring consistent data quality. These cameras capture images at various wavelengths, revealing unique spectral signatures of materials within blends. The inclusion of white and dark reference images for calibration corrects variations in lighting and camera responses, guaranteeing reliable results.


Achieving Accuracy in Textile Blends


Precise textile blend identification is vital for efficient recycling and sustainability. Hyperspectral technology enables accuracies within ± 2-8%, empowering the industry to enhance its sorting and recycling practices. Continued innovation in textile analysis and hyperspectral imaging promises to revolutionize the sector.

Hyperspectral cameras hold the promise of a more accurate and sustainable future in textile sorting. Advances in technology and methodology empower the industry to meet the challenges of synthetic fibers, blended fabrics, and the influence of dyes and finishes, ushering in a new era of precision and efficiency in textile sorting and recycling.

To learn more, discover our White Paper on the topic

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