fabriclabyt

[fabriclabyt]

Why do we need to think about biodegradability when it comes to fabrics and textiles? Well, currently textile waste makes up 6% of all municipal waste in America, which is about 16 million tons of waste, 10 million of which are going to landfills. Globally, that number is 92 million tons of textile waste every year. And certain fabrics, like polyester, will sit in the landfill for thousands of years, potentially leaking chemicals. But why? Why do synthetic fabrics take thousands of years to break down, while natural fibers can take as little as 5 months? Is it because synthetic fabrics are made from oil (petrochemicals), while natural fibers are made from plants? Turns out the answer is no. In this video we explore the mechanisms of biodegradation and how molecular structure determines how long a fabric takes to break down. 

[fabriclabyt]

About me

Hello! My name is Krista! I'm currently a senior in college studying Materials Science and Engineering with a minor in Polymer Science.

I'm starting Fabric Lab as a way to share my passion for sustainability when it comes to textiles. Materials science is all about how the molecular structure of something effects it's properties, and when applying this to textiles, we can look at the structural hierarchy of polymer (long chain-like molecules made up of repeating units) -> fibers -> yarns -> fabrics -> clothing. Each step in that process gives so much to learn! Why are some fabrics biodegradable? What is the difference between synthetic and natural fibers on the molecular scale? Are textiles recyclable?

For me, textile science is the perfect intersection between my love for fashion and crafting, and my passion for science and engineering.

I hope you stick around for some cool science, and sustainable crafts!