Solvay, Lenzing partner for responsible innovation

"There is a major need for sustainability, these days, especially in the fashion industry. It is an ongoing 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 fibers have already proved they 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," explained Daniela Antunes, Solvay business development manager.

The new fabric is designed to further optimiae the benefits the two fibers contribute. Being in direct contact with the skin, Tencel Lyocell offers microscopic fibrils of cellulosic fibers with crosssections structured to regulate the absorption and release of moisture, contributing to fabric breathability that supports the body’s natural thermal regulation. Moreover, it provides a less favorable 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, color retention, and drying speed.

"The combination of Tencel Active fibres, which is derived from renewable wood sources using sustainable production processes, and Solvay´s Amni Soul Eco polyamide fibers enhances biodegradability results into a more sustainable, comfortable, easy care fabric that advances the concept of circular economy," said Andreas Guertler, head of global business management Activewear at Lenzing. "Future collaborations with Solvay will focus on Tencel Lyocell with Refibra technology, our newest fiber innovation made from upcycled cotton scraps and wood pulp, and Amni Soul Eco polyamide to further reduce our environmental impact."

From the way fibres are made to how they affect the planet at the very end of their life cycle, this new product is as innovative as the technologies involved in its creation. The back of the new fabric is made of Tencel Active lyocell fibres derived from renewable, responsibly managed wood sources. The fabric’s front is enhanced by Solvay’s award winning Amni Soul Eco, the first polyamide 6.6 fibre with improved biodegradability, as it stands out in the polyamide industry for its biodegradable properties. 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 wellcontrolled landfills, as demonstrated by laboratory biodegradation tests in accordance with ASTM D5511 - Standard Test Method for Determining Anaerobic Biodegradation of Plastic Materials Under High-Solids Anaerobic-Digestion Conditions. (RR)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India