what really happens to your clothes in their afterlife?

this site expands on my research project on chemical recycling in the textile industry, asking the question: "how we can break down synthetic fabrics at the polymer level and turn 'waste' back into raw material?"

Read the full research paper.

Dive into my 36-page research paper on chemical recycling, sustainable engineering , and the future of circular textiles.

Follow the journey of a T-shirt.

See a step-by-step flow chart—enhanced with images—that traces how a synthetic garment can move from landfill-bound to chemically recycled and reborn as new material.

Explore my Pinterest closet.

Scroll through real pieces where I break down each item by fiber makeup and polymer type to connect chemistry to everyday choices.

Ruth Piana

Recycle Your Fashion

Last Updated: 12/8/2025