Re-Breath Design Center
Recycling of surgical
and FFP2 masks
Construction of an Industry 4.0 industrial demonstrator for the development and production of 100% recyclable and recycled sanitary masks.
The Re-Breath project, technically led by CETI, aimed to demonstrate and develop viable recycling pathways for surgical and FFP2 masks, which are primarily made of polypropylene (PP) and generated in large volumes during the COVID-19 crisis.
The project focused on the recycling of polypropylene (PP) from masks and on identifying solutions to recycle materials with the same chemical composition but different structures, a major technical challenge for textile and nonwoven recycling.
Re-Breath also explored the eco-design of 100% recyclable masks, notably by assessing design adaptations such as the removal of elastic bands and nose clips. This work was carried out in collaboration with industrial partners involved in evaluating mask ergonomics and usability, ensuring that recyclability considerations remained compatible with functional and user requirements.
In parallel, the project included a state-of-the-art review of the societal and human-science dimensions of masks, placing their use and perception in a broader historical and social context.
Through Re-Breath, CETI contributed to the development of circular solutions for sanitary products, demonstrating the feasibility of recycling single-use protective equipment and paving the way for more sustainable approaches to health-related textiles.
“In France, end-of-life professional workwear and production offcuts represent a recycling-eligible feedstock of more than 20,000 tonnes per year.”
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To recycle the polypropylene (PP) used in surgical and FFP2 masks and to identify a solution for recycling two materials with the same chemical composition but different structures.
To assess the design of fully recyclable masks, for example by removing elastic bands and nose clips, in collaboration with companies that will evaluate mask ergonomics.
To carry out a state-of-the-art review of the societal challenges (human and social sciences) associated with masks throughout history.
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CETI
ECODAS
ESTIA
MACO PRODUCTIONS
UNIVERSITE DE LILLE
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Contact : contact@ceti.com
