Biodegradable Polyester Yarn

-- Steady & Reliable Manufacturer --

Introduction

Biodegradable Polyester Yarn is a breakthrough in sustainable textile engineering, designed to address the "microplastic" crisis and the environmental impact of landfill waste. While traditional polyester takes centuries to decompose, GC FIBER’s biodegradable range is chemically modified to be attractive to naturally occurring microbes. By incorporating a patented organic additive into the PET polymer chain during the synthesis phase, we create a fiber that remains durable during its useful life but breaks down significantly faster once it reaches a biologically active environment (like a landfill or the ocean).

Importantly, this is not "oxo-degradable" technology (which simply breaks into smaller plastic pieces); it is true biodegradation. Under ASTM D5511 testing conditions, our yarn can achieve over 80% biodegradation within 3 years, eventually converting into water, CO2​, and organic biomass (humus). The yarn maintains all the mechanical properties of virgin polyester—high tenacity, excellent dyeability, and soft hand-feel—making it a "plug-and-play" solution for brands looking to transition to circular economy models. It is fully compatible with standard knitting and weaving machinery, requiring no changes to the manufacturing process.

Specification

Base PolymerModified Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
Biodegradation Rate>80% within 36 months (ASTM D5511)
Shelf LifeIndefinite (Requires microbial environment to trigger)
Tenacity3.5 to 5.5 cN/dtex (Similar to standard PET)
Elongation20%−35%
Thermal PropertiesMelting Point 255∘C (Standard processable)
Safety CertificationOEKO-TEX Standard 100, REACH compliant
Denier Range50D to 600D (DTY, FDY)
RecyclabilityCan be recycled in standard R-PET streams
Microplastic ImpactSignificantly reduced (Shed fibers biodegrade in oceans)

Application

Biodegradable Yarn is the premium choice for eco-conscious brands focused on "End-of-Life" sustainability.

Fast Fashion and Seasonal Apparel

Ideal for garments that have a shorter lifecycle. Using biodegradable yarn ensures that if these items end up in a landfill, they will not persist for hundreds of years.

Intimate Apparel and Hosiery

Widely used for underwear and socks. Since these items are rarely donated or recycled for hygiene reasons, providing a biodegradable option is the most responsible choice for the planet.

Single-Use Industrial Textiles

Used for temporary fencing, agricultural twine, and tree wraps. Once these items have fulfilled their purpose in the field, they can be left to biodegrade naturally into the soil.

Marine and Fishing Gear

Critical for nets and ropes. "Ghost gear" (lost fishing nets) is a major ocean pollutant; biodegradable yarn ensures that lost gear eventually breaks down rather than trapping marine life for decades.

Advantage

  • Solves the Microplastic Problem: Fibers shed during home laundering are biodegradable, meaning they won't accumulate in the world’s oceans and food chains.

  • No Performance Sacrifice: Offers the exact same strength, stretch, and color vibrancy as virgin polyester, allowing brands to be sustainable without compromising quality.

  • Indefinite Shelf Life: Unlike some bio-plastics, this yarn will not degrade on the hanger or in the warehouse. It requires the high-microbial environment of a landfill or soil to begin the process.

  • Consumer Trust and Compliance: Helps brands meet upcoming environmental regulations and ESG goals while appealing to the rapidly growing demographic of eco-conscious shoppers.

About
GC FIBER
GC FIBER has been a special textile factory in China since 2006 years. We are devoted to researching, developing, producing, and selling special and functional eco-friendly textile products.
Our products include Biodegradable Yarn, Low Melting Yarn, ECDP Yarn, Anti Static Yarn, HDPE Yarn, Bio-component Yarn, and Polyester Filament Yarn.
We are always interested in cooperating with our guests to develop new material.
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Sustainable Biodegradable Yarns Specialty Polyester Filament Yarns Recycled Polyester Yarn Thermo-Regulating Yarn