Israel’s manufacturer of nylon 6.6 fibers, Nilit has launched sustainable nylon fiber Sensil BioCare. Developed to help the textile and apparel industry address environmental challenges such as water consumption and its impact on the environment, the fiber breaks down faster in seawater and landfills.

Manufacturing according to Nilit’s Total Product Sustainability (TPS) criteria, Sensil BioCare is enhanced with a special technology that prevents it from wearing out and interfering with other performance additives, finishes or dyes.

The fibre was tested in both landfill soil and seawater simulations to understand its potential impact on both ecosystems. It showed disintegration in both simulated environments during the test periods in comparison to nylon fibre that does not include the special technology, the release added.

The fiber has been tested according to ASTM D6691 Standard Test Method for Determining Aerobic Biodegradation of Plastic Materials in the Marine Environment and ASTM D5511 Standard Test Method for Determining Anaerobic Biodegradation of Plastic Materials Under High-Solids Anaerobic-Digestion Conditions. These indicate that Sensil BioCare yarns will break down more rapidly than conventional nylon. These findings point to reduced waste accumulation in both oceans and landfills.