ITMA Milan - VIDEO - Mimaki launches game-changing technology - Reprint and reuse polyester textiles

Textile Image Magazine is live at ITMA where Mimaki has launched a world first, new, unique Neo-Chromato Process, which revolutionises the reprinting and reuse of coloured polyester textiles.

By decolourising polyester textiles that have been dyed using dye sublimation technologies, this innovative process allows materials to be reprinted or dyed immediately, contributing to a smaller circular economy. There is no limit to how many times reused polyester can be treated with the Neo-Chromato Process and the process itself minimises water usage and pollution by enabling the disposal of the absorbent paper and decolouring solvents used in the process as burnable waste. Whilst the technology is still in concept stage Mimaki will be actively working to create a workflow to commercialise this technology.

Arjen Evertse, General Manager Sales, Mimaki Europe says, “The increasing awareness of sustainability has led to a significant disposal issue within the textile industry, with polyester textiles accounting for approximately 60% of 92 million tonnes of wasted textile materials worldwide⁽¹⁾. Of this enormous amount of polyester waste, currently around only 15% is recycled. Mimaki's Neo-Chromato Process tackles this issue head on by utilizing a discolouring technology for dye sublimation inks. This process not only eliminates the need for polyester waste incineration but also reduces the energy consumption associated with textile recycling.”

“It is the responsibility of everyone here at ITMA and within the wider textile industry to enable a more sustainable future. Mimaki is actively collaborating with retail and apparel brands to explore the full potential of our latest sustainable technologies. While these latest innovations will enable significant steps forward in sustainable textile production, we also continue to focus on bringing new innovations to market that support the pressing needs of our customers, designers, brands, and importantly, the planet,” concludes Arjen.

VIDEO: Textile Image Magazine is live at #ITMA23 with Arjen Evertse, General Manager Sales Mimaki Europe, demonstrating the Neo-Chromato Process