The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) has received international acclaim at the 50th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva, taking home two Gold Medals and three Bronze Medals. These awards spotlight HKRITA’s commitment to research that advances not only the textile and apparel industry, but also environmental, healthcare and educational innovation.

“We are immensely proud of our researchers whose visionary work continues to redefine what is possible,” said Jake Koh, CEO of HKRITA. “Our mission is to address real-world challenges through practical, scalable innovation that delivers societal value.”

Among the winning projects was a Gold Medal for HKRITA’s eco-friendly method for the selective separation and recovery of nylon from textile waste. This green solvent-based system preserves fibre quality and enables solvent reuse, offering a scalable, low-cost solution to support a circular textile economy.

Another Gold Medal was awarded for a collaborative project with The Chinese University of Hong Kong: a breathable, lightweight hip protector for the elderly. Developed using 3D scanning and AI-driven design, the protectors are cost-effective, comfortable and suitable for hot, humid climates.

The Bronze Medals covered a wide range of fields, including a scalable process for passive cooling PET fibres using metal oxide particles, which demonstrated a temperature drop of up to 3.7°C under sunlight. This innovation holds strong potential for outdoor workwear and sportswear.

HKRITA also partnered with The Education University of Hong Kong to develop a smart vest for school-aged children with ADHD. This vest provides real-time feedback through gentle vibrations, encouraging self-regulation and improving classroom integration without invasive methods.

The final Bronze Medal was awarded for a soft robotic clothing system that adapts to changing temperatures and activity levels. Developed with The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the intelligent garment enhances personal thermal management while ensuring comfort and breathability for users in challenging environments.

HKRITA’s continued success highlights its vital role in translating applied research into impactful, sustainable technologies. Founded in 2006, the institute is funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the HKSAR Government and hosted by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

www.hkrita.com