Viscose and Its Role in the Global Textile Industry
Viscose, often referred to as viscose rayon, is a semi-synthetic fiber that occupies a unique position between natural and synthetic textiles. Derived from cellulose, typically sourced from wood pulp or cotton linters, viscose is manufactured through a chemical process that transforms natural cellulose into a fiber with desirable qualities such as softness, breathability, and versatility. It is one of the most widely used fibers in the global textile industry and is often regarded as an affordable alternative to silk due to its lustrous appearance and smooth texture. The name "viscose" comes from the viscous organic liquid formed during the production process, which is later spun into fibers or filaments.
The manufacturing process of viscose begins with the extraction of cellulose from natural sources, followed by treatment with chemicals such as sodium hydroxide and carbon disulfide to produce cellulose xanthate. This substance is then dissolved in a solution to form a…






