TENCEL

TENCEL is a brand name for a family of cellulose-based fibers produced by the Austrian company Lenzing AG. The brand includes two main fiber families: Lyocell and Modal, both marketed as sustainable textile fibers derived from wood pulp and processed in a way that emphasizes environmental responsibility.

Lyocell fibers under the TENCEL label are produced by dissolving cellulose from wood pulp in a non-toxic solvent in a nearly closed-loop process that recovers and reuses most of the solvent. The wood pulp is sourced from certified renewable forests, and the resulting fibers are spun into filaments for textile production. Lyocell is valued for its strength, especially when wet, good moisture absorption, soft hand feel, and drape. It is commonly used in apparel, denim, and home textiles.

Modal fibers marketed as TENCEL Modal come from cellulose (often beech pulp) and are presented as a softer, highly dye-accepting option with improved dimensional stability. Like Lyocell, Modal under the TENCEL brand is positioned as a sustainable, cellulose-based fiber.

End uses span clothing, underwear, bedding, and other textiles, where the fibers’ softness, breathability, and potential for low environmental impact are advantageous. Biodegradability and compostability are claimed for TENCEL fibers under appropriate conditions, aligning with broader goals of renewable, recyclable textile materials.