Lyocell is a semi-synthetic fabric that is commonly used as a substitute for cotton or silk. This fabric is a form of rayon, and it is composed primarily of cellulose derived from wood. What is so special about it? This article will introduce the production, uses, advantages, and disadvantages of Lyocell fiber.  

What Is Lyocell Fabric?

Lyocell fiber is a type of rayon. It is a cellulose fiber made from dissolving pulp (bleached wood pulp) using dry-jet wet spinning.  Unlike other rayons, lyocell fiber is produced in a closed-loop process using organic solvents, which reduces contact with the environment is more environmentally friendly, and reduces waste emissions.

What Is Lyocell Fabric Made Of?  

 Raw Materials: Lyocell fabric is primarily made from cellulose derived from wood pulp, commonly sourced from eucalyptus, beech, and spruce trees. The wood is harvested from sustainably managed forests, ensuring environmental responsibility.

 Preparation of Wood Pulp: Trees are harvested and chipped into small pieces. These wood chips are then processed to extract pure cellulose pulp by treating them with chemicals to remove lignin and hemicellulose.

 Dissolving Cellulose: The cellulose pulp is dissolved in N-methylmorpholine N-oxide (NMMO), a non-toxic solvent, creating a thick, viscous solution known as the cellulose dope.

 Filtration and Degassing: The cellulose dope is filtered to remove impurities and degassed to eliminate air bubbles, ensuring a smooth extrusion process.

 Extrusion: The filtered cellulose dope is extruded through spinnerets, forming long, continuous fibers as it pass through the tiny holes.

 Coagulation: The extruded fibers are immersed in a coagulation bath where the solvent is removed and recovered, solidifying the fibers into a usable form.

 Washing: The fibers are thoroughly washed to remove any remaining solvent and impurities, ensuring they are clean and ready for drying.

 Drying: The washed fibers are dried, preparing them for further processing, which includes cutting into desired lengths and spinning into yarn.

 Cutting and Spinning: The dried fibers are cut to the desired lengths and spun into yarn, which is then woven or knitted into the final fabric.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Lyocell Fabric

Advantages of Lyocell Fiber                                                    

Softness: Lyocell fabric is exceptionally soft and smooth, making it very comfortable to wear.

Absorbency: It has excellent moisture-wicking properties, keeping the skin dry and comfortable.

Breathability: Lyocell is extremely breathable, promoting good air circulation and preventing overheating.

Durability: The fabric is strong and durable, maintaining its integrity and long-term use even when wet.

Hypoallergenic: Lyocell is naturally hypoallergenic, reducing skin irritation and allergies, and making it suitable for people with sensitive skin.

Environmentally Friendly: The production process is environmentally friendly, using a closed-loop system that uses sustainable wood sources and recycled solvents.

Biodegradability: Lyocell is biodegradable.

Disadvantages of Lyocell

Cost: Lyocell can be more expensive than other types of fibers due to its environmentally friendly production process.

Care Requirements: Lyocell fibers generally require careful handling, such as gentle washing and air drying, to maintain their properties and longevity.

Sensitivity to Water: While durable, Lyocell is sensitive to excess moisture, which can cause it to lose its shape if not dried properly.

Availability: As a relatively new fiber, Lyocell may not be as widely available as traditional fibers like cotton or polyester.

Chemical Treatment: Despite Lyocell's eco-friendly properties, its production process still involves chemical treatments, which may not appeal to all consumers.

Uses of Lyocell Fabric   

Clothing

Lyocell is widely used in casual clothing such as T-shirts and dresses because of its softness and breathability. Lyocell is also used as a material for sportswear and underwear due to its moisture-wicking and hypoallergenic properties, providing better comfort and reducing skin irritation.

Home Textiles

In-home textiles, Lyocell is often used in Lyocell Fiber Quilts, sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers due to its smooth texture and breathability. It is also used in bath towels and hand towels due to its strong absorbency and softness.

Fashion Accessories

 Lyocell is suitable for making scarves due to its light and silky texture, adding a sense of luxury and comfort. It is also used in hats and gloves, providing breathability and softness, ensuring warmth without overheating.

Medical Textiles

 Lyocell is used in medical bandages and dressings due to its hypoallergenic and breathable properties, promoting healing and comfort. It is also suitable for surgical gowns, providing protection and comfort for medical staff.

Industrial Uses

Lyocell is used in filtration products due to its uniformity and strength, which ensures effective filtration. In automotive textiles, Lyocell is used in car seat covers and headliners, providing durability and comfort.

 Eco-friendly Products

Lyocell’s strength and biodegradability make it ideal for reusable shopping bags, promoting sustainable development. It is also used in eco-friendly diapers, which are absorbent and hypoallergenic, comfortable and reduce environmental impact.

 Interior Decoration

 In interior decoration, Lyocell is used in sofa and chair covers for its durability and easy maintenance, providing a stylish and practical solution.

 Footwear

Lyocell’s breathability and moisture-wicking properties make it suitable for shoe linings and insoles, keeping feet dry and comfortable for long periods of time.

How to Wash Lyocell Fabric    

Proper care can extend the life of your fabric. Follow these steps to effectively wash your lyocell.

Read the Care Label: Begin by reading the care label on your Lyocell garment. Manufacturers provide specific washing instructions for the fabric. Follow these guidelines to avoid damage.

Use a Mild Detergent: Choose a mild detergent and avoid bleach and fabric softener, which can cause the material to fade and degrade. Fabric softener coats the fibers, reducing their natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties.

Wash in Cold Water: Cold water is gentler on lyocell and helps prevent shrinkage and fading. Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle to protect the fabric.

Air Dry: After washing, avoid using a tumble dryer, as this can damage the fibers. Instead, lay the garment flat on a clean towel or hang it to dry. Direct sunlight can cause fading, so dry in the shade whenever possible.

Iron at a Low Temperature: If you need to iron, use the lowest temperature setting and turn the garment inside out. High temperatures can scorch the fibers, so proceed with caution. A steam iron or damp cloth can help remove wrinkles without damaging the fabric.

Conclusion

Lyocell is a semi-synthetic fiber made from wood pulp fibers, popular for its environmentally friendly production process and superior performance. It is soft, moisture-wicking, breathable, and durable, and is suitable for use in apparel, home textiles, and medical textiles. If you are in need of bedding then come and pick it up at Ownkoti, we have many different types and styles of sheets.