Collaboration between companies and research centres is crucial for advancing sustainability, and we recently had the privilege of hosting Velamen, a company interested in recycling its textile covers. During their visit to the Leitat Terrassa facilities, we explored various projects that can support their goal of recycling textiles and materials, such as the SOLSTICE project.
The day began with a meeting where we presented Velamen with the initiatives, we are currently working on at Leitat. From the polymer synthesis teams to surchem department, led by Ruth García, we had the opportunity to share our innovative approach to textile recycling and highlight our most prominent projects, including SOLSTICE.
Following this, we took them on a tour of our Leitat Terrassa facilities, showcasing our research and development capabilities. They first visited the chemical lab, where fundamental research is conducted to advance the chemistry of recycling. They then toured the reactors, a vital part of the material transformation process, before exploring the STA lab, which is dedicated to the testing and characterisation of textiles. Here, detailed analysis of materials used in the textile industry takes place.
During the visit, we also had the chance to discuss the potential for recycling Velamen’s covers, particularly those with PU (polyurethane) coatings. With the help of a proof of concept, we explored the feasibility of chemically recycling these materials, opening up new opportunities for the company in terms of sustainability.
A key point of the visit was the potential for Velamen to participate as a supplier for the SOLSTICE project. The company could provide the necessary PU coating to conduct tests and studies within the project, which would not only strengthen the collaboration between our two parties but also contribute to advancing textile material recycling.
The visit was made possible thanks to TEXFOR, who connected us with Velamen, which has opened new doors for textile recycling and collaborative research. We are excited about the possibilities this synergy with Velamen offers and the advancements we could achieve within the SOLSTICE project.
TEXFOR not only facilitated this collaboration but also has a strong network of companies interested in participating in national and European projects.
