We know that the fashion industry has a significant environmental impact due to the excessive production of clothing. During the production process, both air and water are polluted. As an alternative to synthetic fibers, there is Lyocell . This fabric, created with entirely natural ingredients, aims to reduce the environmental impact of fashion by combining sustainability with the creation of exclusive designs.
In this article we will teach you what Lyocell fiber is, its characteristics, uses and much more. Join us on this journey towards a greener textile world!
Key features
Lyocell is a high-quality fabric made from natural fibers using sustainable processes. Although it was registered as Tencel in 1982, it is still recognized by the technical name that corresponds to the process of obtaining cellulosic fibers used in textile manufacturing.
The characteristics of this fabric are very notable:
- An natural fabric of plant origin, which is obtained from the wood pulp of trees such as the eucalyptus, birch and oak, through an environmentally friendly process.
- It is a fabric that requires less water than other fibers such as cotton, making it a more sustainable option.
- Easily accepts the had with colors used in cellulosic fibers, especially with reactive dyes.
- Can be mixed very well with other fibers to create new fabrics, without losing their softness and durability.
- It is a resistant and biodegradable, as long as it is not mixed with other synthetic fibers.
Today, Lyocell has earned a place in the textile industry as one of the favorites of sustainable fashion designers, and more and more renowned brands are incorporating it into their collections.
How Lyocell is produced
Lyocell is manufactured using an innovative process known as "solution spinning ," developed to minimize the environmental impact of textile fiber production. This process begins with the extraction of cellulose from wood, from trees such as eucalyptus or bamboo.
The procedure involves the following steps:
- Pulp extraction and preparation: The wood is selected and crushed to obtain cellulose pulp. This is transformed into small pieces.
- Dissolution process: The pulp is mixed with N-methyl-morpholine oxide (NMMO), a non-toxic solvent, which allows the creation of a viscous solution.
- Yarn: Through a filtration process, the solution is forced through a spinneret where filaments are formed which are then converted into continuous Lyocell threads.
- Sanitation and drying: The yarns are cleaned, stretched and dried, ready for use in textile products.
This production cycle is considered environmentally friendly largely because the solvent used is neither wasted nor does it pollute the environment. In fact, NMMO is 99,5% recycled , making Lyocell a leading fabric in the field of sustainability.
Is Lyocell sustainable?
Lyocell has gained ground in sustainable fashion because it can be produced with a low environmental impact. Its strengths in this regard are:
- Use less water than many other textile fibers such as cotton.
- The production process follows a closed cycle, recovering the solvent for reuse.
- It is biodegradable when not mixed with synthetic fibers.
- The origin of cellulose comes from sustainably managed forests, certified by organizations such as the FSC.
All this makes it one of the best options for those looking for fabrics that contribute to caring for the planet.
Advantages of using Lyocell
The use of Lyocell brings several benefits for both consumers and the environment:
- Softness and comfort: The feel is comparable to silk thanks to its fine fiber structure, making it an excellent choice for products in contact with the skin.
- High breathability: This fabric allows for rapid absorption and evaporation of moisture, ideal for hot climates or sportswear.
- Great resistance: Despite its softness, Lyocell is remarkably strong and durable, withstanding multiple washes and maintaining its appearance over time. It is also less prone to wrinkling.
- Reduced environmental impact: By using less water and chemicals than other options, Lyocell positions itself as an environmentally friendly fabric.
In addition, other applications where Lyocell stands out are in products such as diapers, towels and even bed linen, since its absorption capacity makes it a key ally in maintaining hygiene and comfort.
Disadvantages of Lyocell
Despite its many advantages, Lyocell has some disadvantages to consider:
- Expensive production: The technology for producing Lyocell is advanced and this makes the process more expensive. As a result, products made from this fabric are generally more expensive than other alternatives.
- More delicate care: Although it is durable, Lyocell tends to shrink slightly (about 3%) if proper care is not taken during washing.
- It is not completely natural: Although it is made from cellulose, it still requires chemicals to manufacture, which places it in a category of semi-synthetic fibers.
Caring for Lyocell garments
Lyocell is a fabric that, although durable, requires certain special care to ensure that its properties remain intact over time:
- Care recommendations: It is recommended to wash Lyocell with cold water and mild detergent. If you use a washing machine, select a delicate cycle.
- Drying: The best method is to air dry, avoiding the dryer to minimize the risk of shrinkage.
- Ironing: If necessary, iron at a low temperature, placing a cloth between the iron and the garment.
By following these instructions, your Lyocell garments will maintain all their properties for years.
Lyocell remains one of the most sustainable options for fashion, combining both environmental and functional benefits. If you are looking for clothing that is soft, durable and environmentally sustainable, Lyocell is a great choice for you.