Bamboo fiber is a revolutionary fabric with unparalleled benefits including strength, versatility and luxurious softness. But the manufacturing process still needs to be developed to support the "green" claim of an environmentally friendly product. There are several different manufacturing processes that can be used to convert bamboo from a plant to a woven fabric, but the environmental costs vary. Mechanical methods of pulverizing bamboo into pulp are the least harmful but the most expensive. More commonly, the use of chemical processes can pose a threat to the workers of the processing plant and the immediate environment around the processing plant. The chemical process that causes environmental problems is mainly the use of solvents to "cook" bamboo leaves and stems into a solution from which the fibers are extracted. A commonly used method called "heterogeneous bleach hydrolysis alkalization" is not considered sustainable or environmentally supported.
Bamboo fibre is used in a range of garments such as shirts, dresses, socks and slacks and is ideal for sportswear due to its antimicrobial properties. Bamboo is usually blended with 30% cotton to increase the stability of the fabric, and can also be blended with spandex to give the fabric excellent elasticity and stability, more commonly used in underwear. Bamboo is also used in sheets and pillowcases because its smooth fibers give a satin feel; bamboo fibers also feel warm in winter and cool in summer. Other features and benefits of bamboo fiber clothing:
1. Reduce allergies. Bamboo's organic and natural smooth fiber properties are non-irritating to the skin, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin or other allergies and dermatitis. However, some people still experience chemical sensitivity depending on the manufacturing process used to produce the fibers.
2. Thermal regulation. The nature of bamboo fiber means it helps keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. Bamboo fiber clothing also has excellent moisture wicking properties, making it perfect for warm summer days.
3. Moisture absorption. The cross-section of the bamboo fiber shows various micropores, making the bamboo cloth excellent in absorbency. This enables the bamboo cloth to quickly absorb and evaporate human sweat. Bamboo fiber is four times more absorbent than cotton.
4. Breathable. The porosity of bamboo fiber determines its breathability; bamboo fiber clothing made from bamboo will not stick in hot weather or during exercise.
5. Antibacterial. Bamboo fiber contains a natural antibacterial agent that prevents bacteria from growing on it, which means it helps keep you away from odors.
6, UV protection. Bamboo naturally provides extra protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. Due to its antibacterial and UV-resistant properties, bamboo fiber clothing is particularly suitable for performance and sports wear.