KOSHA Demonstrates FibreSENSE for Smarter Textile Sorting at Bharat Tex 2026
Bengaluru-based deep-tech startup KOSHA showcased its FibreSENSE textile identification technology at Bharat Tex 2026, highlighting how scientific fibre analysis can improve textile recycling, traceability and worker safety across the value chain.
At the exhibition, visitors experienced live demonstrations of FibreSENSE, a handheld scanner capable of identifying textile fibre composition within seconds. Using vibrational spectroscopy, the device analyses a fabric’s molecular structure to accurately identify natural and synthetic fibres, including blended materials, without requiring destructive testing methods such as burning or manual inspection.
The innovation addresses one of the textile recycling industry’s longstanding challenges: accurately sorting discarded garments. Traditionally, workers rely on touch, experience and burn tests to distinguish between different fibre types, a process that is time-consuming, inconsistent and potentially hazardous. FibreSENSE replaces guesswork with scientific verification, enabling faster, safer and more reliable textile sorting.
Complementing the scanner is KOSHATrace, the company’s digital traceability platform, which records every scan to create a verified digital trail throughout the recycling process. The platform helps recyclers, brands and regulators monitor fibre composition, material movement and sustainability credentials across the supply chain.
According to KOSHA, early pilot projects have helped divert more than 33,000 kilograms of textile waste from landfills while contributing to estimated carbon savings exceeding 110,000 kilograms of CO₂. The technology has been developed with support from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and C-CAMP (Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms) and has received recognition from organisations including the H&M Foundation, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India, and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
Beyond improving recycling accuracy, the company emphasises that the technology enhances workplace safety by reducing the need for workers to handle contaminated textiles with bare hands or perform burn tests. FibreSENSE allows sorting personnel to use protective equipment while making evidence-based decisions supported by digital verification.
The startup believes the combination of scientific fibre identification and digital traceability creates value across the textile ecosystem. Recyclers benefit from improved material recovery, while brands gain greater confidence in recycled content claims and supply chain transparency.
Speaking about the event, Vijaya Krishnappa, Co-founder of KOSHA, said that Bharat Tex 2026 provided a unique platform to engage with waste handlers, recyclers, manufacturers and global brands under one roof, helping the company expand both its commercial reach and sustainability impact.
Held at Bharat Mandapam with the support of the Ministry of Textiles, Bharat Tex 2026 placed strong emphasis on circularity, sustainability and innovation, creating opportunities for technology providers like KOSHA to collaborate with stakeholders across India’s textile value chain.
KOSHA says its long-term vision is to help build one of the world’s most circular textile ecosystems by equipping recycling professionals with technology that combines scientific accuracy, traceability and safer working practices.
