Known as “the black diamond” in Japan and Southeast Asia, bamboo’s use of bamboo charcoal fiber is an emerging trend in the fashion industry as manufacturers seek to combine fashion with functionality.
Green Earth News previously wrote about the many benefits of bamboo charcoal, so it should come as no surprise that those positives extend to fabric made from bamboo. The charcoal is created by heating bamboo to temperatures of 800 degrees and then the charcoal itself is processed and blended into fabrics as part of the growing field of nanotechnology.
Nanotechnology is defined as the “understanding, manipulation and control of matter to the extent mentioned above, thus the physical, chemical and biological properties of materials (individual atoms, molecules and bulk matter) can be designed, synthesized or altered to develop the next generation of improved materials, devices, structures, and systems.” Therefore, textile attributes such as softness, durability, water resistance, and breathability can be enhanced with the use of nanotechnology.
The several positive characteristics of bamboo charcoal fabric include:
Easier on sensitive skin: The fabric inhibits bacterial metabolism and causes fewer allergic skin reactions than other fibers sterilized with antimicrobial agents.
Reduces Static Buildup: This is actually a conductive material, so it maintains a balanced charge across the fabric to reduce static buildup.
Superior Washability and Durability: Bamboo charcoal fibers dry quickly and because the carbon nanoparticles are embedded in the fabric rather than simply coated on the surface, the fabric can be washed multiple times without adverse effects on the qualities of the fabric. coal.
Moisture Regulation: Bamboo charcoal yarn has a cross section filled with various micro-gaps and micro-holes, so compared to conventional fabrics, it is better for moisture wicking and ventilation. The fabric keeps the wearer dry and comfortable on hot days.
While bamboo weaving technology is still relatively new, only gaining momentum in Asia since the mid-1990s, its uses are becoming more widespread, ranging from clothing to rugs to bedding. As they look for more environmentally friendly fabrics that offer the same feel and durability as synthetic fabrics, bamboo charcoal is often a surprising but strong contender.
Another good contender derived from the world’s most renewable resource, bamboo, is the viscose from bamboo fabric, which offers a wide selection of fashion trends, from bamboo clothing to bedspreads, baby blankets and luxurious bath towels.