Arclin and General Recycled Address Aramid Recycling Challenges for Protective Apparel

Arclin and General Recycled are advancing mechanical recycling of meta-aramids and para-aramids from protective apparel, with General Recycled blending 20, 33, or 50 percent recycled fiber into new yarns. Meta-aramids are more compatible with existing textile recycling systems, while para-aramids cause increased wear on processing equipment. Traceability and PFAS contamination remain key barriers, with an estimated 35 million pounds of PFAS-contaminated firefighting gear facing changeout in North America over the next five to seven years.