AquafilSLO, based in Slovenia, stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the global polymer and synthetic fibre industry. As the leading producer of these materials in Slovenia and the research and development hub for circular economy practices within the Aquafil Group, AquafilSLO exemplifies the power of sustainable chemistry to drive change.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Aquafil has long embraced environmental sustainability principles — rethinking products in a circular perspective and minimizing environmental impacts of its operations. Also, at AquafilSLO, these principles are integrated into every stage of production and innovation. The facility is dedicated to minimizing environmental impact, optimizing resource use, and fostering a closed-loop system.
ECONYL®: A Circular Economy Breakthrough
At the heart of Aquafil’s sustainable chemistry practices is ECONYL® — a regenerated nylon made entirely from waste materials, including fishing nets, fabric scraps, carpet flooring, and industrial plastic. This revolutionary product is a prime example of how chemistry can be used to regenerate waste into high-performance raw materials without compromising quality or functionality.
Through a proprietary regeneration and purification process, AquafilSLO transforms these waste streams into ECONYL® regenerated nylon 6, which is identical to virgin nylon but can be recycled infinitely without losing its properties. This innovative process significantly reduces the global warming impact of nylon production compared to conventional methods.
Closing the Loop with Technology and Collaboration
Sustainable chemistry at AquafilSLO is supported by cutting-edge technologies designed to reclaim and regenerate materials from both post-consumer and pre-consumer waste. The company’s advanced depolymerization systems allow for the chemical breakdown of nylon waste back into its monomers, which can then be re-polymerized into new ECONYL® regenerated nylon.
A Model for Industrial Sustainability
Aquafil’s work demonstrates how chemistry can create real-world solutions to environmental challenges. Its efforts contribute directly to the reduction of pollution and help alleviate climate change.
As a key innovation centre of the Aquafil Group — recognized worldwide for quality and product innovation — AquafilSLO is not only shaping the future of sustainable materials but also serving as a model for industrial transformation in line with the European Green Deal and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.