Nowadays, a variety of fabrics is available in the market. They come in various sizes, textures, designs, prints, weight and weaving. Fabrics can b natural or synthetic. Some fabrics are more in demand while some are less. One type of fabric that is clearly misunderstood is the viscose Lycra fabric. Therefore, we write below six facts about the viscose fabric that will help you in understanding the fabric in a better way.
- What is viscose, and where did it originate? Viscose, also known as rayon, is fibre is made from a viscous organic liquid, and hence, it is named viscose. Viscose is used to generalize the process of manufacturing regenerated fabric from cellulose. As such viscose is neither completely natural (like cotton) or is it fully synthetic (like nylon). It is a mixture of both. Viscose has many qualities because of which it is highly popular. It is used for a variety of reasons from cotton products to velvet and even in women’s sanitary products.
- What is cellulose? When a fibre is manufactured, its main components can be either cellulose or protein. Cellulose is a carbohydrate that is majorly found in the walls of plants. The major difference between synthetic and manufactured fibre can be gauged from its level of sustainability. Viscose is a cellulosic fibre like cotton as it is made from wood pulp. That is why it is often considered to be only partially handmade.
- Is viscose a sustainable fabric? Viscose, although made from a natural source, is chemically treated to make it more durable. Chemicals such as caustic soda, ammonia, and acetone are used alongside the recycled wood pulp so that the fabric can withstand the regular wear and tear. Nowadays, viscose is manufactured using N-Methylmorphoine N-oxide as the solvent, which creates very little waste product. Due to this, viscose is considered an eco-friendly fibre.
- What are some characteristics of viscose? Viscose, due to its many characteristics, is used in a variety of products. Some of the characteristics of viscose are that it is highly versatile because it blends well with most fibres, is breathable and smooth. It also drapes ell and is absorbent. It possesses colour retention properties, is lightweight, soft and comfortable, does not trap the heat of the body and is economically priced. Viscose also has drawbacks, although they are not specifically negative. Some of these are that viscose can shrink when it is washed, can wrinkle, becomes weak when exposed to light and water and is susceptible to dew.
- Viscose: A misunderstood fabric – Most consumer tend to misjudge a fabric when it is not ‘natural’. As fabric technology is making great advancements, Viscose Lycra Fabric Manufacturers are making efforts to ensure a clean production of viscose to make it eco-friendly.
With the above information, it is understood that viscose possesses many beneficial qualities, which makes it a great fibers to work with. Because of its versatility and myriad uses, many industries make use of this fabric, from the medical world to fashion and daily household items.