O'Nascimento, Ricardo, Petreca, Bruna, Morrow, Roberta, Dawes, Christopher, Ribul, Miriam, Rahatekar, Sameer and Baurley, Sharon, 2026, Journal Article, Biofibre explorer: An augmented reality (AR) tool to promote circularity through material knowledge Sustainable Futures, 11. ISSN 2666-1888
| Abstract or Description: | Augmented Reality (AR), which overlays digital information on the physical world, is frequently used in textile retail to improve shopping experiences by simulating product appearance and enabling virtual customisation. While these applications foster brand engagement and purchasing decisions, they largely promote consumption rather than encouraging circular behaviours. This study introduces the AR Biofibre Explorer, an innovative tool designed to reconnect consumers with materials and processes by demonstrating the wet spinning process for producing cellulose-based textiles. Through a mixed-methods evaluation, we reveal how the tool enhances understanding of material origins and their applications, promoting informed decisions and circular practices. Aligning with The wellbeing framework for consumer experiences in the circular economy of the textile industry, the tool incorporates dimensions such as learning, attachment, competence, and playfulness. This research establishes AR as a means to foster sustainability and circularity in fashion by bridging material knowledge gaps, enhancing consumer engagement, and enabling sustainable consumption choices. |
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| School or Centre: | Other Research Centres > Materials Science Research Centre |
| Funders: | This work was supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) through the UKRI Interdisciplinary Circular Economy Centre for Textiles: Circular Bioeconomy for Textile Materials [grant number EP/V011766/1]. |
| Identification Number or DOI: | 10.1016/j.sftr.2026.101648 |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Augmented reality, Digital tools, Design tools, Biobased textiles, Circular economy, Consumer experience, Gamification |
| Date Deposited: | 04 Feb 2026 13:02 |
| Last Modified: | 04 Feb 2026 14:23 |
| URI: | https://researchonline.rca.ac.uk/id/eprint/6804 |
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