Viscose – The Artificial Silk
Viscose, also known as artificial silk, is a fiber obtained from cellulose. It’s important to clarify the difference between artificial and synthetic, as these terms are often confused.
- Artificial:Obtained through human ingenuity. It starts from a natural product and transforms it into a new product. In the case of viscose, it starts from cellulose (wood pulp or cotton linters). The result is similar to natural fibers. The myth that these fibers produce bad odors, cause health problems, and are uncomfortable is untrue! Viscose is a fabric that does not cause allergies.
- Synthetic: Obtained from various polymers derived from chemical synthesis. These fibers do not start from a natural base but from chemical compounds obtained in the laboratory.
To make viscose, cellulose is treated with a caustic soda bath, then carbon disulfide is added. The resulting colloidal solution is then extruded into thin threads. The next step is to wind these threads onto a spool, ready to be washed and dried.
A Bit of History
French chemist Count Hilaire Bernigaud de Chardonnet created viscose in 1883. It was presented at the Paris Expo in 1891. English chemists Charles Cross, Edward Bevan, and Clayton Beadle obtained the patent for industrial production in 1902. In 1906, the patent was sold to Samuel Courtauld, who began large-scale production of viscose. Its first name was “artificial silk,” but in 1924 it was called Rayon. The name viscose comes from the fact that, in its liquid state, this material is very fluid, that is, viscous.
The Use of Viscose
Viscose is one of the most widely used fibers in fashion. Due to its quality and properties, it is ideal for making high-quality garments. In fact, viscose resists washing, does not deform, breathes perfectly, does not leave bad odors, and does not cause skin allergies. Garments made from this material range from outerwear to underwear. In this case, viscose is often mixed with elastane in doses ranging from 6 to 10%. This process enhances the fit and comfort. Since it doesn’t wrinkle and is very shiny, it is often combined with wool or cotton to create high-quality fabrics.
Viscose and High Fashion
Fashion designer Stella McCartney has always been very environmentally conscious. During Climate Week 2016, she released the first video of the Deforestation Series. The theme is the destruction of forests, aiming to reduce the environmental impact created by fashion. It should be noted that, although it is made artificially, viscose originates from trees. Stella McCartney uses only eco-friendly viscose and ensures that Swedish forests are always in balance. In this way, she has raised awareness among major fashion names and laid the foundation for a new work ethic.
How to Wash It?
Viscose should be hand-washed in water at 30°C. It is advisable to use liquid detergent for delicate garments and let it soak. Avoid wringing or maneuvers that could damage the fiber. In some cases (always read the label instructions), it can be machine-washed. In this case, it’s better to use a laundry bag to protect the garment. Finally, blot excess water and dry flat, away from heat sources and direct light.