At a glance
CiCLO® technology is a sustainable textiles ingredient in the form of an additive that is combined with polyester and nylon during melt extrusion at the very beginning of the fiber-making process. CiCLO® additive creates countless biodegradable spots in the matrix of the plastic, where microbes that naturally exist in certain environments can break down the materials just like they do with natural fibers.
For quality assurance and traceability, we only sell CiCLO® additive to our global network of certified fiber and yarn manufacturers. Brands and retailers may purchase CiCLO® fiber and yarn directly from our network of CiCLO® Certified Manufacturers for endless applications, from apparel to rugs and more.
Safe
The chemistry used to make CiCLO® fibers is OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT certified. This independent certification offers transparent proof that CiCLO® ingredients meet the criteria for ecologically responsible textile manufacturing.
During a multi-step process, each individual ingredient is analyzed to confirm it meets statutory requirements and is not harmful to human health. Certification requirements are updated annually to include new scientific findings or statutory requirements.
CiCLO® additive and the process of biodegradation have also been proven non-toxic to marine life.
Effective
Reliable scientific data from third-party laboratory studies have proven CiCLO® fibers, yarns and textiles effective over the course of several years. Lab studies determine the rate and extent of biodegradation in simulated environments, including wastewater treatment plant sludge, seawater, soil and landfills. Long-term data demonstrates clearly how CiCLO® textiles and fugitive microfibers are metabolized by microbes while untreated textiles remain persistent and refractory (resistant to biodegradation) in those same environments.
Studies are conducted using internationally recognized respirometry test methods established by The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) to measure true biodegradation of plastics in various environments.
Benefits
- Non-toxic to marine life
- Easy to implement in existing manufacturing
- Maintains integrity of fibers, no loss of durability or performance
- Only activated in conditions where biodegradation can occur
- Fibers and yarns are traceable