Kingston University researchers deploy robots and AI to cut garment waste

Kingston University researchers are deploying humanoid robots and artificial intelligence technology to tackle the UK’s rising mountain of old and unused clothing. 

Professor Vasilis Argyriou, an expert in computer vision and AI, has developed multiple new systems to rapidly analyse and sort unloved garments so they can be turned into other products at low cost. 

Three years ago, local fashion brand KAPDAA asked Kingston University experts for help to tackle garment waste. The UK throws away more clothes than anywhere else in Europe – an average 35 items per person per year or 711,000 tonnes annually - much of which ends up in landfill.  

Working with KAPDAA, Innovate UK and a host of other partners, Professor Argyriou has developed the technology in stages.  

The first project, AI4Fibres, launched in September 2023, explored the use of advanced AI systems to automatically analyse and sort textiles. Portable-AiFibres began in April 2024 and aimed to develop the world’s first portable, easy-to-use recycling system for clothing and fabrics, using AI, robotics, and sensors. ReFibres started in May 2024 and focused on creating a full recycling system for soft materials like garments. 

Professor Argyriou is now working on integrating all of these technologies into a full textile recycling system capable of sorting up to 30 tonnes of clothing per week.  

The pioneering system uses an AI-powered robotic framework to sort garments based on type, colour and composition in just two seconds per item and computer vision and robotics to detect and remove zippers, buckles and other non-textile materials.  

It includes automatic UV sterilisation to remove bacteria, a fabric puller to extract long-length fibres for future re-use and a robotic sorting line to remove poor quality textiles and prepare clothes for recycling.  

Subject to final testing and approvals, the new technology is set to be available commercially from 2026.  

“Over the last three years, we’ve worked with industry partners to develop a proof of concept, prototypes and final system which can be used in a plant setting,” said Professor Argyriou.   

“What sets this system apart is its ability to handle up to 16 different fabric types, including blended materials, in a portable setup, which is a first in the industry. We’re now building humanoid robots capable of folding and unfolding garments as part of this technology.  

“When the project ends in 2026, the system will be able to sort up to 30 tonnes of garments per week. It will offer a more cost-effective way of recycling clothes which can then be transformed into a range of practical materials for commercial use, helping divert tonnes of garments from landfill.” 

• This project has been shortlisted for a prestigious Times Higher Education Award.  
• The technology has been developed in partnership with Choose2Reuse CIC, Innovate UK, KAPDAA, Royal Opera House and the University of Leeds.