Viscosebased

Viscose-based fabrics refer to regenerated cellulose fibers produced from natural cellulose using the viscose process. The most widely used viscose-based fiber is viscose rayon (commonly called viscose or rayon). Other commercially important viscose-based fibers include modal and cupro (cuprammonium rayon). Lyocell and cellulose acetate are not typically classified as viscose-based, as they are produced by different processes.

Production involves sourcing cellulose from wood pulp or cotton linter, treating it to form alkali cellulose, converting it to cellulose xanthate with carbon disulfide, dissolving the xanthate in a caustic solution to make a viscose dope, and extruding it through spinnerets into an acidic bath where cellulose is regenerated into fibers. The resulting fibers are washed and finished. The process uses several chemicals and historically raised concerns about sulfur compounds and wastewater; today many facilities operate with improved wastewater treatment and, in some cases, closed-loop systems to reduce environmental impact.

Properties of viscose-based fibers include softness, excellent drape, and high moisture absorption with good dye uptake, contributing to comfortable fabrics and a wide range of colors. They are typically strong when dry but weaker when wet and can be prone to shrinking or wrinkling. Common uses include dresses, blouses, linings, underwear, and home textiles, often in blends with other fibers to improve performance and durability.

Sustainability considerations focus on raw-material sourcing, chemical use, and water management. While viscose-based fibers can be biodegradable, end-of-life outcomes depend on fiber blends and finishes. Some producers promote more sustainable dissolving-pulp sources and advanced finishing processes, and consumers often encounter labels distinguishing viscose rayon from derivatives like modal and cupro.