Lyocell: what kind of fabric, properties, advantages and disadvantages

Thanks to the development of modern technology, the impossible becomes possible. Scientists were able to create a new generation of fabric. Thanks to the use of high technology, eucalyptus wood fiber turned out to be a very interesting and extraordinary fabric - lyocell. In the age of active consumption, alternative ways of obtaining materials are becoming increasingly popular.

Most often, a simple man in the street divides the material into cotton and synthetics. Quite recently, a completely new matter appeared, which was created through the use of high-tech techniques. The product of modern technology has received the name "lyocell".

It is a fiber made from cellulose, which is obtained during the chemical treatment of eucalyptus trees. Because of these features, the fabric can be considered completely safe. This is quite a serious invention in the light industry over the past decades. The product was developed by scientists in the 80s. 20th century. Industrial production of material began to actively develop in the late 90s. 20th century. In Russia and the United States, the material is used under different brands. In our country, lyocell has the name "Orcel" and was created in the city of Mytishchi (Moscow region). The second name - "tensel" - the product received in the United States.

Bedding made from this material are very popular. To receive such raw materials from eucalyptus is very expensive. This is due to the high cost of wood and the use of high technology in production. However, in the production of virtually no need to use strong chemical components. Due to this production, plants do not affect the environment, and the fibers have a pure composition.

By its properties, lyocell is not inferior to cotton fabrics, and in some nuances it is even better than them. Lyocell has a high antimicrobial properties, which eucalyptus is famous for: the material is quite durable, does not cause an allergic reaction and is quite universal. In addition to the creation of fabrics of premium class, filler is made from it.

Surprisingly, the production of new material is completely environmentally friendly. Even environmentalists were forced to admit that the production of this product is completely safe. The product was even awarded a special award for environmental protection, established in Europe. The basis of obtaining material laid natural production technology. For the production of this material is spent quite a lot of money. But at the same time nature does not suffer at all. The material is completely harmless to children and adults.

The main stages of obtaining material.

• The very first step is dissolution. This is carried out in the process of treating wood with water to produce pulp.
• The next step is evaporation and mixing with an organic solvent. The whole composition is heated to +100 degrees, and then cooled in special containers.
• When the suspension has cooled, it is filtered and then melted.
• The product is drawn axially and a fiber is formed from it. Thus, the interrelation of molecules is destroyed and new ones appear, but with special crystallization.

Lyocell is formed from the fiber of the same name with the help of several weaving variations on a loom. Its similarity to cotton, satin and silk depends on the characteristics of the raw materials. The result is a very light, soft and silky fabric. It combines the best properties of natural and artificial raw materials, due to which it is popular all over the world.

The composition of the material depends on the manufacturer. This type of fabric can be sold in pure form or with an admixture of natural and artificial elements. Cotton, rayon, polyester, etc., can be used as an additional raw material. Lyocell without additives is a very expensive product, therefore it is rarely sold in this form. Mixed material variants are widespread:

• with the addition of elastane;
• with the addition of elastane and modal.

Through the use of modern technology, scientists were able to produce a fabric that is similar in appearance to silk and, in terms of strength, similar to satin. She also has the natural properties of cotton fabrics.

Key properties of lyocell:

• the fabric is very durable and does not tear even when wet;
• fabric has high hygroscopic characteristics;
• the material can be used as part of medical bandages;
• due to its superior performance, it is excellent for people who are allergic to synthetic materials;
• items made of this fabric can be worn even for children;
• the material does not attract dust to itself, which contributes to an even greater use of lyocell in light industry;
• the material is well breathable - thanks to this property of the product, pillows, mattresses and blankets were made from it.

After creating the fabric, scientists wanted to replace them with viscose materials used for tailoring. But soon, thanks to a detailed study of the characteristics of the fabric, it began to be used in many areas of human activity. Nowadays covers and blankets for motor vehicles made from lyocell are very popular. Material fibers are used in the manufacture of air duct filters. And at the expense of silkiness they began to make items of women's and bed linen. Thanks to the material properties, it is possible to make clothes for children, elegant dresses, as well as warm and durable sweaters.

The main advantages of this type of fabric:

• material is very comfortable to wear;
• things from this fabric have a quality and decent appearance, they are well worn for a long time;
• the material has a wide range of colors and does not lose brightness after many washes;
• fabric is almost not crumpled;
• Lyocell perfectly retains its shape - the material with a long wear does not roll into the pellets;
• fabric has bactericidal properties;
• the material is breathable, which makes you feel comfortable.

Lyocell filler has several undeniable advantages:

• prevents the formation of harmful germs and ticks;
• very light and warm;
• possesses high air permeability;
• quickly recovers;
• in the process of use does not form lumps;
• has a long service life.

Experts say with confidence that this type of material is not harmful. Bed linen from such fabric is recognized as one of the best. The product is recommended to all lovers of natural, comfortable and environmentally friendly materials. This material, which is perfectly breathable, has antimicrobial and anti-allergic properties.

Initially, the material was created for the production and tailoring. But because of the strong similarity with silk, manufacturers began to manufacture bed linen from lyocell. Consumers appreciated the beautiful appearance and pleasant texture, as well as good performance and hygienic characteristics of the material. Due to its special structure and hypoallergenic characteristics, lyocell is an excellent filler for any pillow. You can often find a blanket filled with lyocell. Bed linen from lyocell does not roll, it contributes to high-quality air exchange. To reduce the cost of eucalyptus filler, holofiber is often added to the composition.

Clothing for children and adults may be completely different. This is affected by the characteristics of the material, which allow it to be smooth, radiant, fluffy and very soft or imitating suede and leather. Even with the use of additional impurities, the fabric is durable and elastic. It perfectly fits the silhouette and drapes beautifully using the most standard patterns.

Terry fabrics have a wonderful softness and perfectly absorb moisture. Clothing and bedding made of this material is very strong and durable. But they require proper and quality care.

The material is quite resistant to mechanical damage, but do not over-test the product for strength. It is important to follow the simplest rules when washing, in the process of ironing, during storage and wearing. Due to compliance with the rules of careful care, things from this material can last for a long time, while maintaining their appearance.

Basic rules for the care of products from lyocell.

• The place where the product of this fabric is stored must be dry. If the fabric is lying in a damp place, then mold will quickly form on its surface. This is due to the hygroscopic characteristics of the material.
• It is best to wash things from such material manually or in a typewriter, but in delicate mode. Pressing the product is necessary at minimum speed.
• The temperature for washing should not be more than 40 degrees.
• Drying products must be in a vertical position or fully expanded on a horizontal surface. It is necessary to avoid direct sunlight.
• It is not recommended to iron at the maximum modes. It is possible to use the mode for ironing silk items.
• Pillows need to be often aired and dried in the sun.
• If the fabric is blended, you must adhere to the rules of care for additional elements of the composition.

This product has all the advantages of natural and artificial fabrics. Many experts claim that things from this material can be strong competitors to products made from natural ingredients. The material is very soft, elastic, with excellent shine. It can be warm or light.

The main differences from other materials lyocell:

• has a soft surface;
• does not slip like silk;
• the material is more elastic and much more hygroscopic than cotton;
• possesses the raised moisture absorption criterion;
• when wet it is 3 times stronger than viscose and cotton materials;
• has greater strength than natural fibers;
• Lyocell passes more air and does not attract dust.

In general, based on consumer feedback, products from lyocell are very popular. The material has high adaptability, hypoallergenic and environmental safety. These characteristics are essential for many moms when choosing clothes and bedding for their children.

Many buyers note the high quality of the material and the preservation of bright colors on the bedding, even after many washings. The items made of this material are in great demand. They have a long service life and perfectly keep their shape even after washing. The dresses that are simple in cut look very impressive and stylish due to the pleasant shine and shine of the fabric.

Of the shortcomings, many consumers have noted the high price of products made from this material. Things from lyocell need to be carefully washed and ironed on gentle temperature conditions. Material demanding storage conditions. It must be in a dry place, otherwise the mold may form moisture.

About the properties of lyocell tissue, see the following video.