Why Viscose Blends Are Growing in Popularity
The Viscose is a semi-synthetic fiber derived from natural cellulose, most commonly obtained from wood pulp, bamboo, or cotton linters. It is one of the most widely used man-made fibers in the textile industry and is valued for its silk-like appearance, softness, breathability, and versatility. Known as "artificial silk" in its early days, viscose bridges the gap between natural and synthetic fibers, offering the comfort of cotton and the luxurious sheen of silk at a relatively affordable cost. Over the decades, viscose has become a key material in clothing, upholstery, nonwoven fabrics, and industrial applications, with its popularity continuing due to its adaptability and favorable performance characteristics.
The production of viscose involves several chemical and mechanical steps to transform natural cellulose into a workable fiber. Wood pulp, typically sourced from fast-growing trees such as eucalyptus, pine, or beech, is treated with sodium hydroxide to form alkali cellulose. This is then reacted with carbon disulfide, creating cellulose xanthate, which is dissolved in more sodium hydroxide to produce a thick viscous solution—hence the name viscose. The solution is extruded through spinnerets into an acid bath, where it solidifies into regenerated cellulose fibers. Although the fiber originates from renewable resources, the use of chemicals in its manufacturing has led to discussions around sustainability and environmental responsibility in the viscose industry.
One of the most significant qualities of viscose is its comfort. It is soft, smooth, and breathable, making it ideal for garments worn close to the skin. Unlike purely synthetic fibers such as polyester, viscose allows air and moisture to pass through, providing a cooling effect. Its excellent drape and sheen make it a preferred material for dresses, blouses, linings, scarves, and other apparel that require both elegance and comfort. In addition to fashion, viscose is extensively used in home textiles, including curtains, bed linens, and upholstery, thanks to its ability to absorb dyes well and produce vibrant, long-lasting colors.
The versatility of viscose extends beyond apparel and home furnishings. In industrial and technical applications, viscose fibers are used to make tire cords, surgical dressings, nonwoven fabrics, and wipes due to their absorbency and biodegradability. Blending viscose with other fibers such as cotton, polyester, or wool enhances the properties of fabrics, making them stronger, more durable, or more wrinkle-resistant. This adaptability ensures that viscose continues to find new applications in diverse industries.
Despite its many advantages, viscose has some limitations that need consideration. One of the main drawbacks is its tendency to lose strength when wet, which can make fabrics prone to shrinking, wrinkling, or stretching out of shape. Care must be taken when washing viscose garments, as they often require gentle handling or dry cleaning to maintain their structure. Furthermore, the fiber’s manufacturing process has raised environmental concerns. Traditional viscose production involves toxic chemicals like carbon disulfide, which can harm workers and pollute surrounding ecosystems if not managed properly. This has prompted stricter regulations and encouraged the development of more sustainable alternatives.
