ROTAUF Monomaterial
Rotauf Knowledge
Monomaterials
In the textile industry – especially in outdoor and sportswear – the topic of recycling is becoming increasingly important. Given resource scarcity and growing environmental awareness, it is essential to design materials so that they can be optimally recycled and reused. The concept of monomaterials plays a central role in this. But what exactly are monomaterials, why are they important for a functioning circular economy, and what role does ROTAUF play in this?
WHAT ARE MONOMATERIALS AND WHY ARE THEY SO IMPORTANT FOR THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY?
Monomaterials, as the name suggests, consist of only one material type, such as 100% cotton or 100% merino wool, or even 100% pure PA (polyamide), and are therefore considered "single-component." This approach is particularly valuable for recycling, as mixed materials—such as polyamide-elastane blends—are much more difficult to separate and recycle. The recyclability of textiles increases significantly when they are made of a single material, as pure materials can simply be melted down, processed into granules, and reused in the manufacture of new products.
In a so-called circular economy, materials circulate continuously in the economic cycle without loss of quality. Monomaterials play a key role in closing this cycle, as they make recycling more efficient and less energy-intensive, and the materials can be recycled without great effort.
WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES OF MONOMATERIALS AND HOW ROTAUF IS TAKING ACTION
In leisurewear, mono-materials quickly reach their limits. They must be robust and durable, yet also stretchy and comfortable. Many functions, such as elasticity and abrasion resistance, are achieved by blending materials such as elastane and polyamide (PA), which must meet particularly stringent requirements for athletic activities. A blended material can thus be both stretchy and durable, something often difficult to achieve with mono-materials.
However, these material blends pose a challenge for the circular economy: The recycling process becomes more complex because the different material types must be separated from each other. This not only leads to higher costs but also reduces the quality of the recycled end product. This poses a particular challenge in the sports and outdoor clothing sector, where high functional requirements are essential.
As a sustainable and responsible outdoor brand, we at ROTAUF are aware of this issue. Nevertheless, since ROTAUF was founded, we have consistently and exclusively used mono-materials because the environment is important to us.
To ensure consistent high quality, each product undergoes rigorous testing to determine whether it can be made from a single material without compromising functionality and comfort. This includes developing prototypes and selecting alternative materials that are both sustainable and high-performance. For products requiring high flexibility or special properties, such as abrasion resistance or stretchability, we use pure materials with high functionality. All of our ROTAUF products are specifically designed to be extremely durable and robust, maximizing their lifespan and delaying the need for recycling.
Circular economy
A ROCKY ROAD WORTH TAKE
The use of monomaterials is a key building block for a circular future in which raw materials are used optimally and resources are conserved. With ROTAUF, we are implementing this approach in outdoor clothing to minimize environmental impact and optimize recycling processes. While the path to 100% recyclable products in the outdoor sector is challenging, we are determined to continue down this path with ROTAUF – for a circular and sustainable textile industry that protects the environment and conserves resources.
Did you know?
There is a small start-up from Switzerland that has developed a sustainable membrane.
Find out more in episode 5.
The ETH spinoff Dimpora is developing an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional waterproof membranes in outdoor clothing. Immerse yourself in the world of an innovative startup from Zurich that is developing a sustainable alternative to conventional waterproof membranes in outdoor clothing. The film examines the problems associated with commercially available microporous membranes and traces the path from the initial idea through development to the patent application. We also gain insights into the challenges and motivations behind the company's founding and the motivation to bring an environmentally friendly membrane solution to market.
Pioneer spirit just the way we like it.