Harnessing fluorescence for advanced characterization of textile microfibre emissions

The rise in use of synthetic textiles, driven by low production costs and the fast fashion model, has significantly increased microplastic pollution in our environments causing both physical and chemical damage. To combat this, upstream solutions within the design and production stages of textiles is essential. However, advancements in eco-design parameters leading to the monitoring of reduced microfibre shedding are hindered by labour-intensive methods, high variability due to counting biases, and complications caused by high contamination encountered in textile testing laboratories. This research overcomes these issues by application of disperse fluorescent dye to polyester fabric before laundering, enabling detailed post-laundering microscopy analysis supported by semi-automated counting methods. The fluorescent dye penetrates the fibre matrix, enhancing the detection sensitivity of smaller, irregular fibre fragments by up to 280%. This advancement has significant implications for assessing the environmental impact of released pollutants and improving capture technologies. This methodology enables design and production parameters to be quickly and reliably analysed to address microfibre shedding. Routine analysis of microfibre shedding within the textile industry is essential for supporting legislation that will encourage more sustainable practises and ultimately mitigate the environmental impact of synthetic textiles.