MEET LYOCELL
FROM:
Regenerated cellulose from wood.
IS IT SUSTAINABLE?
Yes.
IS IT DURABLE?
Yes.
IS IT BREATHABLE?
Yes.
IS IT WARM?
No.
HISTORY:
Lyocell was developed in the late 20th century as a result of extensive research and technological advancements in the field of cellulose-based fibers. The American fibre manufacturer Courtaulds and the Austrian business Lenzing are responsible for the development of the fabric.
Lyocell was first introduced to the market in the 1990s. It was initially branded as TENCEL® by Lenzing, which remains a well-known and widely used brand name for Lyocell today.
PRODUCTION PROCESS:
One of the notable aspects of Lyocell is its sustainable production process. Unlike traditional rayon production, which involves the use of harmful chemicals, it is produced using a closed-loop process.
The fibers are obtained from cellulose, which is extracted from sustainably managed wood pulp. Commonly used wood sources include eucalyptus, bamboo, or birch trees. The wood pulp is processed to remove dirt and then dissolved in a non-toxic solvent, typically amine oxide, to create a viscous solution. The solvent is recycled and reused, minimizing waste and reducing environmental impact.
The viscous solution is forced through spinnerets, which are fine nozzles with tiny holes, to create continuous threads. These threads are solidified as they come into contact with an air gap or a coagulating bath. The newly formed Lyocell goes through a series of washing and rinsing steps to remove residual chemicals. This ensures the production of clean and pure fibers.
The fibers are then dried and carded to align them in parallel. They are then spun into yarns, which can be used for subsequent fabric production processes. The Lyocell yarns are woven or knitted into fabrics. Lyocell fabric may undergo finishing processes such as dyeing, printing, or applying finishes to enhance its properties or aesthetics.
Lyocell fibers are used to create fabrics that exhibit properties similar to natural fibers like cotton and silk. It can be blended with other fibers, such as cotton or wool, to enhance specific characteristics. The sustainable nature of Lyocell has contributed to its growing popularity.
Comparing the closed-loop production method to other means of producing fiber, it significantly reduces the amount of water used and chemical waste produced.
