Researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Australia, are exploring the use of algae biomass recovered from wastewater treatment to develop a natural binding agent for manufacturing, with potential applications in textile recycling, reported Waste Management Review.
The research builds on a trial conducted by Sydney Water at its Picton Water Resource Recovery Facility, using RegenAqua technology developed by macroalgae company Pacific Bio.
The technology uses native green macroalgae to remove nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus during the final stage of wastewater treatment. As the algae absorb these nutrients, they generate harvestable organic biomass.
UNSW researchers are converting this biomass into a natural binder, similar to glue or resin, and testing its suitability for combining discarded textile fibres with other materials to produce new biocomposites.
Textile waste is a key focus, as more than 300,000 tonnes of clothing are landfilled or exported from Australia annually. Recycling remains difficult because garments often contain mixed fibres, dyes, fasteners and chemicals, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Researchers say these contaminants need to be addressed before materials can be recycled safely.
The team is therefore examining processing methods that can handle mixed textile waste rather than relying on perfectly sorted materials.
The algae-derived biomass could also find applications in agriculture, energy and construction, areas already being explored by Pacific Bio.
Another focus is developing smaller-scale processing technologies that would allow biomass to be converted into useful products close to where it is generated. This could help councils, utilities and remote communities reduce transportation costs and create value from locally available waste materials.
The project is nearing completion, with researchers working towards producing a prototype resin and demonstrating its potential applications. The next stage will require additional funding and collaboration with Sydney Water and a textile industry partner to develop commercially functional products.
The research received support from the UNSW Science Translational Impact Seed Fund, which finances early-stage research collaborations with industry and government.
