BASF Launches World’s First Commercial Plant for Recycled Polyamide 6 Production, Advancing Textile Sustainability

BASF has launched the world’s first commercial-scale plant for producing recycled polyamide 6 (PA6), making a significant step toward sustainability in the textile industry by recycling textile waste into high-quality material for various applications.

​BASF, a global leader in the chemical industry, has inaugurated the world’s first commercial plant dedicated to producing loopamid, a recycled polyamide 6 (PA6) derived entirely from textile waste. Located at BASF’s Caojing site in Shanghai, China, the facility boasts an annual production capacity of 500 metric tons.

Advancing Sustainability in the Textile Industry

Loopamid represents a significant advancement in promoting circularity within the textile sector. This recycled PA6 material maintains the same quality and performance characteristics as virgin PA6, making it suitable for a wide range of textile applications, including those blended with elastane. The production process not only conserves raw materials but also addresses the challenges associated with recycling complex textile waste, which often contains mixed fibers, dyes, and additives. 

Certifications and Industry Collaboration

Both the plant and the Loopamid products have received certification under the Global Recycled Standard (GRS). This certification assures consumers and manufacturers that the recycled materials meet stringent environmental and social criteria throughout the production process. BASF’s collaboration with partners, including yarn manufacturers and fashion retailers like Inditex, has facilitated the successful integration of loopamid into commercial products, such as garments and textile components. 

Future Outlook

Initially, the Loopamid plant utilizes industrial textile waste from manufacturing processes as feedstock. BASF plans to gradually increase the incorporation of post-consumer textile waste, including end-of-life garments made from PA6 and other textiles. This strategic shift aims to further enhance the sustainability of the production process and contribute to closing the textile loop. BASF’s commitment aligns with its goal to double sales from circular economy solutions to €17 billion by 2030, underscoring the company’s dedication to sustainable innovation in the chemical industry.