Scientists at the University of Alberta are looking into how hemp grown in Canada can be utilized in the production of lyocell. Lyocell is a fiber commonly used as a substitute for silk or cotton. This semisynthetic fabric is hypoallergenic, soft to the touch and cling free.
Lyocell, which has cellulose as its primary ingredient, was developed by scientists who hoped to manufacture rayon in a technique less harmful than the viscose procedure. Wood is lyocell’s main feedstock; common types of wood include oak, birch and eucalyptus.
Now scientists believe hemp holds the potential for use as lyocell feedstock.
The University of Alberta scientists have been experimenting with cellulose from hemp, led by associate professor Patricia Dolez, a textile scientist. The objective of the scientists is to ascertain the best parameters for lyocell production. Dolez revealed that the researchers were currently refining the processing and learning more while conducting experiments using hemp as well as other feedstocks.
Currently, this fabric is produced by dissolving pulp then dry spinning. The solvent used for the fabric’s production is almost entirely recoverable, which makes it a sustainable way to manufacture textile fibers. The fabric’s production also doesn’t produce carbon disulfide, which is toxic to the environment as well as workers.
Canada could benefit greatly if the scientists are successful in their endeavors. At the moment, there is minimal production of fiber in Canada. The scientists’ success could help establish domestic supply.
The scientists’ work has been divided into two phases, the first of which is focused on improving the process of cellulose filament manufacture. The second phase is focused on the addition of other ingredients to make the fabric stronger.
Dolez explained that once the researchers succeeded in applying this technology, there could be a lot of demand from potential end users, not only for textiles but for anything from food science to biofuels.
In 2022, the textile researcher published a paper that looked into how hemp biomass could be used to create cellulose textiles as the demand for manmade cellulosic fibers increases. Currently, industrial hemp fiber is extensively used in nonlyocell applications. This includes everything from quality textiles to stuffing furnishings. High-quality fabrics made from hemp line fiber have a similar texture to linen, which is nothing like the scratchy hessian fabrics of the past.
Lyocell is trademarked under different names, including Seacell (Zimmer AG), Newcell (Akzo Nobel) and Tencel (Lenzing AG). The fabric is also sold by Birla under the Excel brand name. Additionally, manufacturers such as Sateri sell their products under the lyocell name.
The success of this project to produce lyocell from hemp is likely to widen the demand for hemp biomass, and any other products that entities such as Verano Holdings Corp. (CSE: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNOF) wish to make from marijuana and hemp will compete for the biomass with other companies needing it for other purposes.
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