Viscose

Viscose is a unique form of wood cellulose acetate that can be used for the manufacture of a number of different types of products that are used in the medical industry, when the cellulose is treated with caustic soda. Sometimes referred to as cellulose xanthe in this state, viscose is ideal for the creation of dialysis membrane and other medical tools that must be soft and supple to the touch.

Created from a combination of natural and man-made components, viscose can also be made into the more common form of rayon that is used for many types of textile products, including clothing. Viscose rayon has a silky appearance and feel, and also has the ability to breathe in a manner similar to cotton weaves. In addition to being an inexpensive material to use in lightweight clothing, viscose can also be used for such textiles as tablecloths, napkins, furniture slipcovers, and sheeting. One of the more popular properties of viscose rayon is that the fabric tends to drape very well, which makes it ideal for use in simple curtains, as well as the perfect fabric to line more formal draperies.

While viscose breathes like cotton and has a feel that is pleasing to the touch, there are some drawbacks. One of the disadvantages to textile products made with viscose rayon is that the items will wrinkle very easily, which may lead to steady maintenance.

Another use of viscose is in the form of cellophane. The wood cellulose is treated with sodium hydroxide and then mixing the product with carbon disulfide, the resulting cellulose xanthe is dissolved into more sodium hydroxide. The product can then be ran through a spinning mechanism and out of a slit, resulting in the formation of the cellophane that can be used in the kitchen or as a clear wrap on plants, gift baskets, and other projects.

The development of viscose has made it possible for many people to enjoy a wider array of quality textiles in their homes, without having to pay a lot of money for a luxurious look and feel. Along with the medical uses and the practical uses of cellophane, viscose is obviously a product that touches the lives of everyone in some manner.

source ; www.wisegeek.com