Lyocell is a type of fabric that is gaining popularity worldwide for its eco-friendly production process and properties. As consumers look to make more sustainable choices in all aspects of their lives, lyocell fabric is emerging as a good option. This article delves deeper into lyocell fabrication to understand why it is considered a better alternative in the world of fabrics.

The Origin and Development of Lyocell Fabric

Lyocell fabric was first developed in the 1980s by scientists at the American Enka Corporation, now part of the German company Lenzing AG. The researchers were looking to create a new type of cellulose fiber that could be manufactured with a closed-loop solvent recovery process, reducing environmental impact. After over a decade of research and development, lyocell production process was successfully commercialized in the 1990s under the brand name Tencel. The patented process uses environmentally sustainable chemicals to dissolve and regenerate wood pulp to produce lyocell fibers. Since its launch, lyocell production has continued to be refined, helping further reduce its environmental footprint.

How is Lyocell Fabric Made?

The main raw material used for making lyocell is wood pulp sourced from sustainably managed forests. The wood pulp undergoes an energy efficient pretreatment process before being dissolved using N-Methylmorpholine-N-oxide (NMMO) solvent. This solvent is then able to penetrate the cell walls of the wood fibers and dissolve the cellulose. The resulting solution is forced through fine spinnerets into a coagulation bath where the cellulose reform solid fibers. Critically, over 98% of the NMMO solvent is recovered and recycled during this fiber formation process. The regenerated cellulose fibers are then processed into lyocell yarns and fabrics.

Properties that Make Lyocell a Sustainable Choice

Superior Absorbency: Lyocell fabric has a highly absorptive open cell structure that allows effective moisture management. This makes it suitable for use in hygiene and intimate apparel.

Breathability: Being highly porous, lyocell fabric are breathable and allow skin to breathe naturally. This improves comfort.

Soft Hand-feel: Lyocell's soft, silky texture and hand-feel mimics cotton. But it retains its shape better than cotton after washings.

Quick-drying: Lyocell's absorbent properties allow it to dry quickly, keeping the wearer drier for longer.

Renewable and Biodegradable: As wood pulp is a renewable resource, lyocell production has a lower dependency on fossil fuels compared to synthetic fabrics. Additionally, lyocell breaks down faster in landfills than other fibers.

Eco-credibility: The closed-loop solvent recovery process and minimal environmental impact give lyocell excellent eco-friendly credentials. It produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions than cotton or viscose production.

Versatility: Lyocell can be easily dyed and processed for a variety of end uses like apparel, home textiles and more.

Applications and Growing Popularity of Lyocell

Casual and Formal Apparel: Lyocell is extensively used in knit and woven garments because of its natural look and feel. Popular choices include tops, dresses, and bottoms.

Undergarments: Lyocell's breathability and moisture-wicking properties make it well-suited for intimate apparel, loungewear and activewear. Many brands manufacture bras, underwear and more using lyocell.

Home Textiles: Sheets, towels, drapes and upholstery fabrics made with lyocell offer combined softness, strength and easy care. This has boosted its demand in home furnishings categories.

Healthcare Textiles: Hospitals increasingly use lyocell in surgical gowns, patient apparel and fabrics due to its anti-bacterial qualities and comfort.

Others: Lyocell fibers are components of nonwoven wipes, filters and absorbent hygiene products like sanitary napkins too. Ongoing advancements have enabled new applications.

With growing environmental awareness, lyocell's sustainable credentials have led to rising popularity. Major clothing brands and retailers now offer lyocell options, satisfying customer preference for eco-friendly fabrics. Its widespread use shows how lyocell makes an important contribution to sustainability goals across industries.

Get More Insights Here

https://coolbio.org/emergence-of-online-clothing-rental-market/

https://www.ukwebwire.com/from-trees-to-threads-the-story-of-lyocell-fabric/