WHAT IS TENCEL®?

The lyocell fibers of the TENCEL® brand are the lyocell fibers of the Lenzing house. They are of botanical origin, since they are extracted from wood . The production of fiber itself is extremely ecological, due to the closed circuit system. On the day that TENCEL® fibers were invented, a new chapter in the history of fibers was written. Textiles of TENCEL® fibers are more absorbent than cotton, softer than silk and colder than linen.

ECOLOGICAL PRODUCTION

A life cycle analysis demonstrates the ecological compatibility of TENCEL® fibers compared to cotton, polyester and polypropylene. The study evaluates all environmental impacts in the course of fiber extraction and concludes that the toxic impact of cotton on fresh water and soil is enormous compared to TENCEL® fibers. Another ecological advantage of TENCEL® fibers is that raw wood comes from forest plantations that practice sustainability. Cultivated forest land is not suitable for agriculture. In contrast, cotton uses productive agricultural land, which means that it competes with food production. In addition, water consumption is 10-20 times lower than with cotton. *

* Lenzing TM fiber life cycle assessment: M. Patel, L. Shen, University of Utrecht, The Netherlands, 2008

CLOSED LOOP

TENCEL® fiber production is revolutionary. The production process is based on a solvent spinning process that represents the greatest achievement in cellulose fiber technology. More than 100 Lenzing patents have been granted internationally for the invention of TENCEL® fibers. The exclusive closed circuit process makes TENCEL® fibers the fibers of the future, since the solvent used is recycled almost 100%. This special process received the "European Prize for the Environment" of the European Union.

HUMIDITY TRANSPORTATION

TENCEL® brand lyocell fibers treat moisture like no other. The fibers absorb moisture completely and naturally and then release it to the outside.

A TURBO FORCE IN THE ABSORPTION OF MOISTURE

TENCEL® fibers have a unique fibril structure. Fibrils (tiny hairs) are the smallest components that are part of the fibers. The submicroscopic channels between the individual fibrils regulate the absorption and the release of moisture. Therefore, these small fibrils ensure the optimal transport of moisture.

A COMPARISON GIVES CONFIDENCE

Compared to synthetic fibers, the optimum moisture transport of TENCEL® fibers is unique. The fibrillar structure helps to create an optimal climate for the skin due to superior moisture absorption. In contrast, synthetic fibers do not absorb moisture, as the comparison shows.

However, TENCEL® fibers really stand out compared to cotton. Unlike the latter, TENCEL® fibers absorb moisture in a controlled and regular way, measuring a 50% improvement in moisture management. *

* The graph is based on electromicroscopic studies by M. Abu Rous et al., AUTEX Textile World Conference, Slovenia, 2005

NICE FOR THE SKIN

Since the textile has a smooth surface, the softness is appreciable and prevents skin irritations. Therefore, TENCEL® fibers promote optimal skin feel thanks to the smooth surface of the fiber. Rough surfaces in a fiber can cause skin irritations. Compared to cotton and wool, it is clear that TENCEL® fibers are much softer and more pleasant in contact with the skin.

HYGIENIC

Bacteria have no chance with TENCEL® fibers. The perfect control of the humidity that these cellulosic fibers have makes it possible for the growth of bacteria to be reduced to almost non-existent levels.

TOTALLY NATURAL HYGIENE

With the TENCEL® fibers the formation of bacteria is reduced. Moisture is transported immediately to the interior of the fiber. Therefore, moisture film, which can sustain bacterial growth, is not formed on the fiber.

COMPLETELY WITHOUT CHEMICALS

The growth of bacteria can be completely restricted in a natural way without chemical additives. A test shows that the growth of bacteria in TENCEL® fibers is greatly reduced. In synthetic fibers, on the other hand, the amount of bacteria increases up to 2000 times. *

* Laboratory study of bacterial growth in textiles: B. Redl, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria, 2004.

Source: Lenzing Fibers™