Bioworks Proves Feasibility of Chemically Recycling PLA from Used Socks
Bioworks Inc. successfully demonstrated chemical recycling of polylactic acid (PLA) from used socks made with its PlaX fiber. The pilot project proved the feasibility of regenerating high-purity PLA monomers. A participant survey revealed 93.7% willingness to use such recycling programs, with 87.5% open to buying products from recycled materials if cost-competitive. This advances a circular business model, addressing significant challenges in textile waste and promoting sustainable apparel.
Bioworks Inc. conducted a pilot project proving the feasibility of chemically recycling polylactic acid (PLA) from used socks. Globally, less than 1% of textiles are recycled fiber-to-fiber, with socks and innerwear being highly discarded items (90% for socks/innerwear in Japan). Bioworks selected socks as an ideal test case due to their short lifespan and low reuse rates, aiming to improve circularity through design for recyclability.The project, in collaboration with Gluck Japan, involved distributing and collecting socks containing 23% PlaX (a PLA-based fiber) from users and partners. The chemical recycling process successfully regenerated high-purity, high-quality PLA monomers from soiled socks, demonstrating performance equivalent to virgin PLA. While technical feasibility was proven, challenges in material yield and cost efficiency for commercialization were identified.Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) findings indicate that socks made with recycled materials could reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 9%, and recycled PlaX staple fibers showed around 80% lower CO₂ emissions during yarn production. A participant survey revealed that 70.8% felt no anxiety recycling dirty socks and found the process easy, attributing this to opaque collection bags and simple drop-off methods. Crucially, 93.7% of participants expressed willingness to use similar recycling systems in the future, and 87.5% would purchase recycled products if priced competitively. However, willingness declined for innerwear/underwear, indicating higher psychological barriers. Bioworks aims to continue developing a sustainable recycling model.
