Method for removing colorant and elastomeric polymers from mixed textile feedstock for recycling

Abstract

Chemical processing techniques for removing elastomeric polymers and colorant from mixed textile feedstocks for recycling are described. In an embodiment, a method can comprise contacting a heated solution comprising a solvent to a mixed textile feedstock as positioned within a vessel or chamber, wherein the mixed textile feedstock comprises elastomeric polymers or a combination of elastomeric polymers and a colorant, and wherein the solvent comprises a cyclic ketone. The method further comprises removing at least some of the elastomeric polymers (or both the elastomeric polymers and the colorant) as a result of the contacting, resulting in a transformation of the textile feedstock into a purified textile product that excludes the at least some of the elastomeric polymers (and the colorant when included in the textile feedstock). The mixed textile feedstock can comprise other types of textile materials (in addition to the elastomeric polymers), such as polyester, cotton, nylon, and others.

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