Optical detection spectroscopy system SpecimRETEX

SpecimRETEX – Powered by Konica Minolta: AI-powered hyperspectral textile sorting for a circular economy
SpecimRETEX – Powered by Konica Minolta combines Specim hyperspectral imaging with AI algorithms to provide real-time, high-accuracy textile material recognition for industrial-scale sorting. The solution automates conveyor lines to recover higher-value material streams from textile waste.

Why it matters
Textile waste volumes and regulatory pressure are increasing. Automated, accurate identification and sorting enable recyclers and manufacturers to meet compliance requirements, improve material recovery and unlock circular value chains.

What is SpecimRETEX – Powered by Konica Minolta?
SpecimRETEX integrates hyperspectral cameras, AI classification models and industrial I/O to identify fibers and analyze blends on conveyor lines in real time. It is designed for retrofit or new installations in recycling centers, sorting facilities and manufacturing reverse-logistics operations.

Key features for North America

• High-speed sorting: up to 5 garments per second.
• Material identification accuracy:
  • Cotton: 99%
  • Polyester: 98%
  • Polyamide 6 vs 6.6: 99%
  • Blend analysis (e.g., polycotton): ±5% margin
• Plug-and-play integration: OEM-friendly modules for conveyor retrofit.
• Advanced analytics: real-time data for quality control and process optimization.
• Compliance ready: supports EPR-style reporting and sustainability targets.

Benefits for U.S. businesses

• Sorters & recyclers:
  • Automate sorting to increase throughput and sell separated fractions.
  • Reduce manual inspection and lower operating costs.
• Manufacturers & brands:
  • Enable reverse logistics and fiber-to-fiber recycling programs.
  • Improve traceability and ESG reporting.
• Retailers & consortia:
  • Support closed-loop initiatives and circular partnerships.

Why choose Konica Minolta?

• Expertise in precision imaging and sensing.
• Global leader in color and appearance solutions.
• Backed by Specim hyperspectral technology and AI models.
• Modular, scalable options for lab and industrial deployments.

Product options

• Specim RETEX (Powered by ReTEX): OEM-ready modules for machine builders.
• Specim RETEX Lab (ReTEX LITE): R&D and quality-control configuration.
• ReTEX FULL: Industrial-scale solution for high-volume sorting integrated with loading and automation.

Technical specifications

• Processing speed: up to 5 garments per second.
• Material identification accuracy: Cotton 99%, Polyester 98%, Polyamide 6 vs 6.6 99%.
• Blend analysis precision: approx. ±5% for blends (e.g., polycotton).
• Technology: Specim hyperspectral imaging with AI for real-time classification.
• Integration: Retrofit-ready for conveyor sorting lines; modular OEM modules available.
• Scalability: Modular and scalable for lab, R&D and industrial deployments.
• Data & analytics: Real-time data management for quality control and process optimization.
• Applications: Textile sorting, recycling, reverse logistics, fiber-to-fiber recycling, sustainability and compliance readiness.