Viscoose

Viscoose is a nonstandard spelling often used to refer to viscose, a semi-synthetic fiber known as rayon. Viscose is derived from cellulose, typically sourced from wood pulp or cotton linters, and is produced through a chemical dissolution and regeneration process that yields flexible, drapeable fibers used in textiles.

Production involves steeping cellulose in sodium hydroxide to form alkali cellulose, treating with carbon disulfide to produce cellulose xanthate, dissolving the xanthate in caustic solution to form a viscose dope, and extruding or spinning this dope into a coagulating bath to form fibers, which are then washed and finished.

Properties include high absorbency, softness, and good dye uptake, with excellent drape but relatively lower wet strength compared to some other fibers; viscose can weaken when wet and may shrink or wrinkle, and it is often blended with other fibers to improve performance.

Common applications are apparel such as dresses and blouses, linings, upholstery, and home textiles, as well as nonwoven products and hygienic items. It remains one of the most widely used semi-synthetic fibers.

Environmental considerations: The traditional viscose process uses carbon disulfide and caustic soda, raising health and environmental concerns; operations in many regions are moving toward closed-loop systems to reduce emissions, but ecological impact remains a major consideration. In recent decades, more eco-friendly alternatives such as Lyocell have gained prominence, while viscose remains a cost-effective textile option.