Two types of materials
The fashion and apparel industry uses a wide variety of fabrics and fibers to create garments, footwear and accessories. The most commonly used fibers are man-made or synthetic materials such as polyester, acrylics, nylon, viscose and elastane. Natural raw materials such as cotton, wool, linen, ramie, jute, hemp and cashmere are also used. Each of these fibers has its own properties and is used for different types of garment, from everyday wear to high-end branded garments. This article will focus specifically on man-made fibers.
Polyester
Polyester is one of the most widely used fibers in fashion, thanks to its low cost and durability. It is often blended with other synthetic fibers or natural materials such as cotton or wool, resulting in high-quality fabrics with a wide range of properties. It is often used for sportswear and outdoor clothing because of its moisture-wicking properties, and for formal because of its durability.
How is polyester made?
Polyester is a man-made fiber derived from fossil fuel-based chemicals such as ethylene and benzene. The polymers produced by combining these chemicals are then heated and extruded into long yarns that can be woven or knitted into fabric. However, polyester production is highly polluting, contributing to global warming and air pollution through the use of chemicals and energy- and water-intensive manufacturing processes.
Polyamide (Nylon)
Polyamide is a light, strong, highly abrasion-resistant synthetic fiber. It can be blended with other fibers such as cotton or wool for added strength and durability. It is often used for hosiery, sportswear and swimwear, thanks to its stretchability and moisture-wicking properties.
How is polyamide made?
Polyamide is made from petroleum-derived chemicals such as adipic acid and hexamethylene diamine. These chemicals are heated and combined to form long chains of molecules (polymers) that can be woven or knitted into fabric. Unfortunately, the production of polyamide fibers is also highly polluting, contributing to air pollution through the release of greenhouse gases and hazardous substances.
Acrylic
Acrylic is a synthetic fiber derived from acrylonitrile, a chemical compound made from petroleum and natural gas. It is soft, light and warm, and is often blended with other fibers for added softness. It is often used in sweaters, hats, scarves, blankets and outerwear for its insulating properties.
How are acrylics made?
Acrylic is made from petroleum-derived chemicals such as acrylonitrile, which is heated and extruded into long yarns that can be woven or knitted into fabric. Unfortunately, the production of acrylic fibers also has a negative impact on the environment due to the use of chemicals and energy-intensive manufacturing processes. Garments made from petrochemical materials generate toxic micro-particles when washed, which has a detrimental impact on marine ecosystems. Acrylic garments are not recyclable, deteriorate quickly and pellet easily.
Viscose (Rayon)
Originally known as "artificial silk", rayon is a man-made regenerated cellulose fiber created from wood pulp. It is often blended with other fibers such as cotton and polyester to produce fabrics with a luxurious sheen and soft, plush feel.
How is viscose made?
Viscose is obtained by treating wood pulp with a caustic soda solution, which breaks down the fibers into cellulose. The cellulose is then spun into yarn and woven or knitted into fabric. Unfortunately, viscose production is also highly polluting, due to the release of hazardous chemicals such as sulfuric acid and carbon disulfide during the manufacturing process. Despite the use of natural raw materials, the process used results in significant sulfur pollution.
Elastane
Elastane, "Spandex" or "Lycra" (registered trademark) is a synthetic fiber derived from polyurethane and other petroleum-based chemicals. It is highly stretchable, lightweight and resistant, making it ideal for tight-fitting garments such as sportswear and swimwear.
How is elastane made?
Elastane fibers are produced from a synthetic rubber called polyurethane (a petroleum-based molecule). Unfortunately, elastane production also produces significant air pollution and contributes to global warming through the use of energy- and water-intensive manufacturing processes.
What can we do?
It's clear that the fashion industry relies heavily on man-made fibers such as polyester, polyamide, acrylic and elastane. These fibers are all derived from petroleum-based chemicals that have a negative impact on the environment through air pollution, water waste and global warming. So it's important that we are aware of the impact our clothing choices have on the planet, and look for more sustainable alternatives such as natural fibers, recycled materials or reclaimed fabrics. By making small changes to our clothing choices, we can help to reduce the fashion industry's ecological footprint.