TOOLBOX / FIBERS / MODAL

modal.

Developed in 1951, modal is a manufactured, natural polymer, semi-synthetic cellulose fiber. Modal can be seen as an upgrade to viscose since it uses an alternative source of cellulose and its process is slightly different. The main difference mainly being the pulp derivating from beechwood.

Modal is manufactured by making pulp consisting of beechwood and a cocktail of chemicals – of which are unknown. As a next step, the pulp is then pressed through spinnerets resulting in filament. The filament is put in sulfuric acid and then washed to get rid of salt and acidic residues. This process can have significant negative impacts on people, the environment, and biodiversity if not done responsibly.

Most production facilities operate on high water and energy use and apply toxic chemicals that aren’t recovered or recycled and therefore endanger the worker’s health and pollute water and air irreparably. Furthermore, modal production also contributes to the deforestation of already endangered forests. This whole process could be more sustainable through circular processing but unfortunately, this has not yet been successfully translated into actualization. Moreover, modal production is still a very intransparent process making assurance of sustainability very difficult. Consequently making this fiber not sustainable. Ultimately, modal’s sustainability depends on the production facility’s practice.

+ PROS

what it gives.

  • is shrink resistant
  • is smooth and soft on touch
  • is breathable
  • holds intended shape well
  • is lightweight

− CONS

what it asks.

  • allergy-prone
  • susceptible to creases
  • has debatable durability

ADVICE

what to look for.

If you are keen on using modal, use FSC-certified modal. But I’d strongly advise you to use a natural fiber instead.

SOURCES & FURTHER READING

where this comes from.

https://materialarchiv.ch/en?type=all&f=ma:material_1638

https://www.textileschool.com/9977/properties-of-regenerated-cellulosic-fibers-modal-lyocell/

Material Guide: What Is Modal? And Is It Sustainable?

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