Everything you need to know about man-made cellulosic fibers (MMCs)

What are cellulosic fibers?

Cellulosic fibers are fibers derived from cellulose, the main compound found in plant cell walls that provides plants their structure. Depending on how the cellulose is extracted, the fiber can either be found in natural form or synthetically created from pulp through chemical processes. 

If you look in your closet, you would likely find that most of your clothes are actually made from cellulosic fibers. Cotton is the most common textile fabric and is an example of a natural cellulosic fiber. Another popular natural fiber is linen, which is derived from the flax plant. 

What are man-made cellulosic fibers?  

Alternatively, man-made cellulosic (MMC) fibers are manufactured fibers extruded from plant materials, conventionally wood pulp. As wood undergoes an intense chemical process, it produces a pulp made up of cellulosic fibers. The fiber is eventually spun and woven into fabric. The most commercial wood-derived fabrics are rayon (viscose), lyocell, and modal. However, MMC fibers can be created from an array of other plant sources, such as bamboo, hemp, and even agricultural wastes. 

MMCs are currently the third most common fiber around the world, with an annual production volume of nearly 7.1 million tonnes. It holds around 6.4% of the total global fiber production volume and has a growing market worth nearly $25 billion. According to Textile Exchange, MMC fiber production has nearly doubled since 1990 and is expected to grow over 6% in the next couple years.

Are man-made cellulosic fibers sustainable? 

For the most part, yes. MMCs are considered more sustainable than cotton and oil-derived fibers because its manufacturing process requires less water and land and emits less carbon. As well, the material is 100% biodegradable. However, with over 200 million trees logged each year for MMC production, wood is not the most sustainable man-made cellulosic fiber on the market. Many fashion brands are looking for alternative man-made fibers that do not endanger ancient forests around the world. MMC fibers created from recycled plant materials and agricultural waste are more eco-friendly substitutes for wood, cotton, and polyester. 

You can read more about sustainable MMC fibers here.