Trends on the cellulose-based textiles: Raw materials and technologies

This review examines the growing role of cellulose-based fibers in the transition toward more sustainable textiles. It provides an overview of cellulose as a renewable raw material and discusses established and emerging technologies used to convert cellulose into textile fibers, including viscose, lyocell, cellulose acetate, ionic liquid-based processes, and solvent-free spinning approaches.

The article also explores alternative cellulose sources, such as bacterial nanocellulose and nanocellulose-derived materials, while placing these developments within the broader context of environmental performance and the evolving needs of the textile industry.

For cellulose acetate, the review highlights its position as an established regenerated cellulose fiber produced through acetylation of cellulose and processed by dry spinning. The article emphasizes that cellulose acetate offers advantages in processability and remains an important part of the man-made cellulosic fiber landscape, although its textile use is more limited than viscose or lyocell due to performance considerations. More broadly, the review concludes that cellulose-based fibers will play an increasingly important role as demand grows for renewable and biodegradable textile materials. The findings are relevant for industry and researchers seeking lower-impact alternatives to fossil-based fibers and underscore the importance of continued innovation in cellulose sourcing, fiber manufacturing technologies, and life-cycle performance to support a more sustainable textile sector.

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