Textile production relies not only on fibres such as cotton, polyester, and wool, but also on chemical auxiliaries used during preparation, dyeing, and finishing processes. These essential ingredients play an important role in textile quality and performance.
Turning waste into high-performance textile chemistry
ERCA TCS, a pioneer in textile chemical innovation, has developed a new generation of textile chemical auxiliaries like levelling agents for polyamide (PA) and polyester (PES) fibers, emulsifying and dispersing agents, softener and others, made from upcycled waste materials such as used vegetable cooking oil.
Developed and produced in Italy, these solutions are designed to combine high performance with circularity while providing an alternative to traditional raw materials such as palm and castor oils.
The project, launched in 2018, involved extensive research and testing to develop products that meet performance, safety, and environmental requirements. Each product undergoes evaluation, including biodegradability and aquatic toxicity assessments, followed by independent third-party certification.
ERCA TCS’s innovation has achieved several recognised certifications and approvals, including the ISCC PLUS certification, being ERCA SPA the first chemical company to obtain certification under ISCC PLUS standard for the output category “Auxiliary for textile industry (Vegetable Oil Ethoxylates, Alkylamide) Bio-Circular”. The product line has also achieved a level 3 rating in the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) Gateway and received approvals from bluesign® and the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
Indipendent data shows significant reductions in carbon emissions compared with standard products, with reported reductions between 22% and 72%. The project has also been included in the European Community’s Best Available Techniques (BAT) document.
Beyond industrial innovation, ERCA promotes awareness around responsible waste disposal through educational initiatives encouraging the collection of used vegetable oil and preventing environmental damage caused by incorrect disposal.
