Sustainability Approach of Recycled Denim Fabrics with a Life Cycle Assessment

Abstract In this study, denim fabrics were produced using weft yarns obtained from mechanically recycled fibers after consumer use, and the breaking strength, tearing strength, thermal resistance, water vapor permeability, air permeability, and fabric stiffness of these fabrics were determined according to the standards. A life cycle analysis of the recycled denim fabrics was made using the SimaPro software program, and the environmental effects of the production were also revealed. Within the scope of the study, it was observed that the structural properties of the fabrics produced and the composition of recycled cotton used affect the performance and comfort properties of the fabric. The effect of the cotton recycling rate on the recycled denim fabrics was evaluated by LCA (life cycle analysis). As a result of the LCA evaluation, with the use of cotton with a high percentage of recycling additives instead of the conventional cotton, as in the reference fabric, resource depletion (fossil fuels), global warming, depletion of the ozone layer, the toxic effect on human, freshwater and terrestrial life, the total water use, and other categories were observed to undergo a significant improvement.