Viscose is a contradictory beast - as a manufactured regenerated
cellulose fibre, it is neither truly natural (like cotton, wool or
silk) nor truly synthetic (like nylon or polyester) - it falls
somewhere in between. The raw material for viscose is
cellulose, derived mainly from wood pulp (trees are 50% cellulose),
which is broken down either mechanically or chemically and reformed
into fibres. Viscose takes its name from the viscous liquid,
which has a similar colour and fluidity of honey, that is formed
midway through the manufacturing process.
The viscose process was discovered by the English chemist
Charles Cross and his collaborators in 1891. Viscose was
first commercially produced in 1905 and was often referred to as
"artificial silk" but was officially named "rayon" in 1924.
The name is rumoured to be driven by its brightness (ray of sun)
and similarities to cotton (on).
Viscose has become popular for a number of reasons, most
importantly its luxurious look and feel yet affordable price.
Viscose is versatile and blends easily with other fibres. It
is easily dyed and retains vivid colours particularly well.
It is renowned for its silk like lustre, appealing drape and
superior softness to cotton.
Viscose does however have limitations that we all need to be
wary of. Viscose absorbs moisture - body oils and
water. This can discolour and weaken the fabric and result in
marking. Consequently, many fabrics with a high viscose
content are classified "dry clean only". Unfortunately, most
commercial cleaning in New Zealand uses hot water extraction
machines - the equipment used to dry clean furniture is not yet
available here. Spot cleaning is problematic and can result
in water marking.
Viscose's other Archilles heel is that it can have poor crease
recovery. We upholstered a sofa in a viscose chenille
recently. This particular pile flattened or "bruised"
extremely easily and would not recover. I would discourage
the use of this type of fabric for upholstery - viscose performs
much better in woven fabrics.