Austrian cellulosic fibre producer Lenzing has partnered with international chemical and fibres group Solvay to develop a new fabric that boosts the benefits of the firms’ respective Tencel branded lyocell and Amni Soul Eco biodegradable polyamide yarn.
The back of the new fabric is made of Tencel Active lyocell fibres derived from renewable, responsibly managed wood sources, while the fabric’s front is enhanced by Solvay’s Amni Soul Eco yarn, the world’s first biodegradable polyamide 6.6 fibre.
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While other polyamide fibres take decades to decompose, Amni Soul Eco branded fibres are designed to biodegrade in around five years when disposed of in well-controlled landfills.
The new fabric is designed to further optimise the benefits of the two fibres. Being in direct contact with the skin, Tencel lyocell offers microscopic fibrils of cellulosic fibres with cross-sections structured to regulate the absorption and release of moisture, contributing to fabric breathability that supports the body’s natural thermal regulation. In addition, it provides a less favourable environment for bacterial growth, enhancing the fabric with better hygienic qualities.
On the fabric face, Amni Soul Eco polyamide provides better abrasion resistance while boasting great benefits in terms of dimensional stability, colour retention, and drying speed, the firms say.
“The combination of Tencel Active fibres and Solvay’s Amni Soul Eco polyamide fibres enhances biodegradability results into a more sustainable, comfortable, easy-care fabric that advances the concept of circular economy,” says Andreas Guertler, head of global business management activewear at Lenzing. “Future collaborations with Solvay will focus on Tencel lyocell with Refibra technology, our newest fibre innovation made from upcycled cotton scraps and wood pulp, and Amni Soul Eco polyamide to further reduce our environmental impact.”
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By GlobalDataDaniela Antunes, Solvay business development manager, adds there is a major need for sustainability in the fashion industry.
“It is an on-going process that has to start from the very beginning of the production chain, from the fibres involved in the creation of fabrics and, later on, garments. Both Amni Soul Eco polyamide and Tencel lyocell fibres have already proved their responsible character. Combined together they will lead to great results in terms of durability, comfort and performance while helping to preserve the planet and its resources.”
