As our fibre innovation is unique and of great interest to the textile industry, we are continuously asked about its qualities. The fibre is still in R&D phase and yet to be even classified. We have first decided to see how it works in actual applications. Our background is in research and not textiles, so we have chosen to develop the fibre together with brands, developing it to suit commercial products.
Sometimes this presents a chicken and egg situation, as none of us yet know the exact qualities of this fibre. However, as we are about to get proof of concept in our pilot factory and are entering product development projects, it’s time to describe some of our R&D phase findings.
Sturdy, warm and safe
Firstly: this is a cellulose-based natural fibre that includes no harmful chemicals from any stage of our process. On the “roadmap to zero”, we’re already there.
As a 100% natural material, the hand feel is closest to cotton or linen. This is a sturdy fibre that’s probably suitable for applications that need poise. What brings ease to processing this fibre and strength to the end-products is that its cross section is not circular. This makes it flexible to one direction and stiff to another.
The Spinnova fibre’s second most interesting feature is its water retention property. We can tune this from very low absorption to almost super absorbent level (close to 10 times its own weight).
Its insulation capability is also amazing: those properties (k-value) are on par with lamb wool. Imagine the possibilities of this! There is so much to explore.
As our research progresses, we will evaluate additional interesting properties. The Spinnova fibre is likely to be non-allergenic and antibacterial. Again, imagine the potential! It could be huge in anything, where a safe fibre is needed, e.g. around small children and allergic people – why not all of us, actually.
Well dyeing and tough
The fibre has also turned out to behave well in dyeing. The Spinnova fibre’s abrasion resistance is already on a good level, and its pilling level is on par with cotton. Plus, as a natural fibre, it’s of course completely non-conductive of electricity.
These are our main findings. As you can see, I’ve used the word “natural” a lot, and that’s just the thing. Applying different treatments may make a natural fibre resemble man-made fibres (if that’s even needed), but a man-made fibre can never attain the qualities of a natural one.
And to finish off, of course, a disclaimer..
What’s described here is the wood-based fibre. We are gradually looking into other types of cellulose such as waste streams, but they are not covered here, apart from the 0% harmful commitment. Please note this is R&D phase information only, not final product data, as this is not yet a commercially available product.