Lyocell Fabric - A Sustainable and Eco-friendly Textile Option

 

Lyocell Fabric

Lyocell fabric is a man-made cellulosic fiber derived from wood pulp through solvent spinning process. It is considered to be one of the most environmentally sustainable fabrics produced today. This article discusses in detail about lyocell fabric - its manufacturing process, properties, applications and why it is considered eco-friendly compared to other fabrics.

 

Manufacturing Process

 

The manufacturing process of lyocell involves dissolving pulpwood in an organic solvent called N-methyl-morpholine N-oxide (NMMO). The pulpwood is usually obtained from sustainably managed forests. In the next step, the cellulose pulp is forced through spinnerets into a bath containing the same solvent to produce lyocell fibers. These fibers are then washed, dried and crimped to produce the final lyocell fabric.

 

The key highlight of the lyocell manufacturing process is that the solvent NMMO is recycled up to 99% and reused repeatedly. This minimizes waste generation and dependence on new solvent. Also, no harsh chemicals are used during the overall process making lyocell production environmentally responsible.

 

Properties

 

Some notable properties of lyocell fabric include:

 

- Soft and Breathable: Lyocell fabric has a soft, silky hand feel and is highly breathable due to its open fiber structure. This makes it very comfortable against the skin.

 

- Absorbent: Being cellulosic in nature, lyocell is highly absorbent and can soak up around 20% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet.

 

- Durable: Despite being so soft, lyocell fibers have good tensile strength and last long. Garments made from lyocell can be worn for several washes without pilling or losing shape.

 

- Dimensionally Stable: Lyocell fabric maintains its size and shape after washing due to resilient fibers. Clothing made from lyocell retains appropriate fit over time.

 

- Quick Drying: Moisture absorbed by lyocell fabric evaporates quickly, allowing clothes to dry faster than cotton without use of dryer.

 

Eco-friendly Credentials

 

The environment-friendly manufacturing process makes lyocell one of the most sustainable textile choices today:

 

- Renewable Source: Lyocell is produced from wood pulp sourced from sustainably managed forests.

 

- Solvent Recovery: Near complete recovery and reuse of NMMO solvent minimizes waste.

 

- Biodegradable: Lyocell breaks down quickly in industrial composting.

 

- Energy Efficient: The manufacturing takes lesser energy compared to other cellulosic fibers like viscose rayon.

 

- Low Greenhouse Emissions: The overall lyocell production process emits lesser greenhouse gases.

 

Apparel Applications

 

Due to its comfortable, durable and quick drying properties, lyocell fabric has found widespread use in several apparel items:

 

- Undergarments: Lyocell underwear and socks feel smooth against the skin and wick moisture away efficiently.

 

- Activewear: Sports bras, lycra shorts, leggings made from lyocell keep the body cool and dry during workouts.

 

- Sleepwear: Nightdresses, nightshirts, pajamas made from breathable lyocell fabric stay cozy through the night.

 

- Loungewear: From sweatpants to t-shirts, lyocell fabrics are perfect for comfortable lounging at home.

 

Other Uses

 

Apart from apparel, lyocell fiber is utilized to manufacture:

 

- Home Textiles: Sheets, towels, bed linen made from lyocell absorb moisture without feeling damp.

 

- Medical Textiles: Non-woven lyocell fabrics find application in surgical gowns, drapes, masks due to their absorbency and breathability.

 

- Industrial Textiles: Lyocell fibers are blended with other fibers to produce ropes, protective coverings, insulation batts and geo-textiles.


Get More Insights Here

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

https://www.pressreleasebulletin.com/soft-breathable-and-sustainable-lyocell-fabric-unveiled/

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