MIT Engineers Develop Recyclable Elastic Yarn from Milk-Jug Plastic, Addressing Textile Waste

Researchers at MIT have engineered an all-polyethylene elastic yarn that matches conventional synthetic blends in strength and stretch, while also being capable of repeated thermal recycling. This innovation could significantly reduce landfill clothing waste, as 80% of textiles currently contain spandex, making them non-recyclable under standard systems. The team envisions circular supply chains where worn athletic apparel can be melted and respun into new garments.