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OliWasTex is investigating the revalorization of a post-industrial waste as an innovative source of eco-friendly textile dyes. This project responds to the demand to find new circular solutions and is aligned with an emerging but growing fashion trend.

Olive oil production presents 3 main waste streams: olive leaves, olive mill wastewater and olive pomace ("alperujo"). Alperujo consists of the solid parts remaining after olive oil extraction, a mixture mainly of stones, pulp and perhaps some leaves and other organic matter with high phenolic and acid concentrations that make it highly suitable as a colorant for cationic textile fibers.

Currently, alperujo is used as a composite and, to a lesser extent, as biomass, and there is little literature on its potential use as a textile dye. In addition, the phenolic content of alperujo can also offer antimicrobial properties and UV protection as a synergistic finishing effect for textiles.

Additionally, the textile industry is one of the most important in the world. Several well-known brands are starting to launch collections following more efficient processes (less water and energy consumption) and/or using sustainable materials (natural dyes, ecological auxiliaries, etc.). With this, industries are facing a new paradigm, trying to be aligned with new legislation and with the growing demand for these products as a differential factor, being socially recognized as an active element in the fight against climate change.