Is Lyocell Plastic-Free?

A regenerated cellulose fiber derived from wood pulp, often eucalyptus, beech trees, or bamboo. This material possesses a soft, comfortable feel similar to cotton yet exhibits strength and durability, even when wet.

Uses: Commonly used in clothing (shirts, pants, dresses, underwear), bedding (sheets, towels, blankets), home textiles (curtains, tablecloths, etc.), and various industrial applications.

Good to know: Unlike conventional viscose or rayon, the production of lyocell uses a closed-loop system that recycles most of the solvents, minimizing environmental impact and chemical exposure. Furthermore, compared to other cellulose-based fabrics, lyocell uses significantly fewer and less harmful chemicals during processing. For example, in most cases, the wood pulp is dissolved in a non-toxic organic solvent, N-methylmorpholine N-oxide (NMMO), to create a solution. This solution is then extruded through fine openings to form filaments, which are solidified into fibers.

TENCEL™

A brand name under which Lenzing AG, an Austrian chemical & textiles company, markets its lyocell fibers. TENCEL™ is well-known for its sustainable and eco-friendly qualities. It is derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp, often from eucalyptus trees, and produced using a closed-loop process, where the solvent used in the manufacturing is recycled, minimizing environmental impact.