Sustainable Fashion Advancement: Lenzing Group Transforms Traditional Dyeing Process

Sustainable Fashion Advancement: Lenzing Group Transforms Traditional Dyeing Process

(IN BRIEF) Lenzing Group Revolutionizes Textile Dyeing Process for Sustainable Garments Austria-based Lenzing Group, a global leader in wood-based specialty fibers, introduces an innovative approach that reduces environmental impact in textile dyeing and finishing. The one-step dyeing process significantly cuts water, energy, and chemical consumption by up to 50%, 40%, and 90% respectively. The approach, suitable for TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers, allows for customization of color shades and wash-down effects, unlocking design possibilities in knit apparel and denim-looking garments. Moreover, it enhances production efficiency and cost-savings for value chain partners by eliminating dye residue and minimizing machine downtime during color changes.

(PRESS RELEASE) LENZING, 18-Jul-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — The Lenzing Group (VIE: LNZ), an Austria-based world’s leading supplier of specialty fibers, unveils an innovative solution that revolutionizes the traditional dyeing and finishing process in the textile industry. By combining advanced yarn pre-treatment and knitting techniques, Lenzing Group achieves aesthetic effects similar to traditional wash-down dyeing in ready-to-wear and knit garments. This groundbreaking approach not only addresses the environmental impact of dyeing but also enhances production efficiency for value chain partners.

The key highlight of the new approach is its one-step dyeing process, which significantly reduces water and energy consumption. Unlike conventional dyeing methods that involve multiple washes, Lenzing Group’s approach requires just a single round of dyeing. As a result, water usage is reduced by up to 50%, energy consumption by 40%, and chemical usage by a remarkable 90% compared to traditional methods¹. This breakthrough innovation marks a major milestone in sustainable textile production.

“As consumers become more conscious of the environmental footprint of their purchases, designers and manufacturers are seeking innovative ways to ensure that the materials and production processes deployed have a low environmental impact, while expanding design possibilities,” said Rex Mok, Vice President of Fiber Technical Marketing and Development at Lenzing. “Our new approach can create wash-down aesthetics or vintage looks on any knit fabric without water-intensive bleaching processes. By overcoming the limitations of traditional dyeing, our new approach is a resource-efficient alternative that helps translate into greater sustainability and more competitive operational costs for fabric mills. We will continue to work with mill partners to drive wider adoption of the new approach and explore new applications within the textile value chain.”

The versatility of the new approach extends to the realm of design. It allows for the creation of unlimited design possibilities in knit apparel and denim-looking garments. By directly applying the technique to fabrics and yarns made with TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers or TENCEL™ Lyocell with REFIBRA™ technology, designers can achieve various shades of color and customize wash-down or fade-out effects. This empowers fashion brands to deliver unique and visually captivating products to consumers.

Moreover, the new approach brings tangible benefits to value chain partners, particularly yarn makers and fabric mills. Existing regular, organic, or natural dyes used in the industry are fully compatible with this innovative process. Since the yarn and fabric treated with the new approach do not leave any dye residue on the machines, manufacturers can seamlessly switch between different colors without the need for extensive cleaning or downtime. This not only enhances production efficiency but also reduces costs and minimizes production delays.

Lenzing Group remains committed to its mission of driving sustainability in the textile industry. This groundbreaking development underscores the company’s dedication to reducing the environmental impact of textile dyeing and promoting more sustainable practices throughout the value chain. By offering a comprehensive solution that combines efficiency, versatility, and eco-consciousness, Lenzing Group sets a new standard for sustainable fashion.

¹ECOFAST™ Pure Sustainable Textile Treatment Application Manual, DOW, 2022

Media contact:

Rita Ng
Head of Global Marketing Services

+852 3718 5675
r.ng@lenzing.com

SOURCE: LENZING AG