Lenzing, a leading manufacturer of man-made cellulosic fibres, is celebrating 50 years of the production and marketing of Lenzing Modal, the fibre known for its softness.

“For decades Lenzing was the only fibre manufacturer to produce modal fibres. Lenzing demonstrated its innovative prowess and enormous economic stamina in the marketing and production of Lenzing Modal thereby making a lasting impression on the textile world and enriching it to no end,” commented Lenzing CCO, Robert van de Kerkhof.

“One can no longer imagine a world without modal. Lenzing and Lenzing Modal deserve to be celebrated.”

50 years of softness

At the beginning of the 1960s research scientists at Lenzing embarked on a quest to find a cellulose fibre similar to cotton but with a higher tenacity profile than viscose. Research activities focused on the development of modal fibres. Lenzing research scientists perceived this fibre to be the ideal solution in terms of both textile processing and environmental aspects.

The fibre was first named Hochmodul 333. One of the very first uses for the fibre was in tapes to close potato bags. Intensive marketing measures to position the fibre in textile applications and subsequently led to the success of the modal fibre category. As of 1990 Lenzing became the sole manufacturer of the modal fibre.

Lenzing will kick off celebrations for Lenzing Modal and MicroModal with its customers on 18 November in Lenzing. Further festivities with customers are planned for international textile tradeshows. “We want to celebrate with as many customers as possible since it was they who shared our faith in Lenzing Modal and made the fibre a global success,” said van de Kerkhof.

Future of sustainable fibre

In recent years Lenzing has showcased its innovative strength with the introduction of specialties like Lenzing Modal Color, and MicroModal Air, the finest cellulose fibre, as well as with innovations in the manufacturing process.

Above all, the investments in technology are what have made Lenzing Modal one of the most sustainable fibres in the textile industry. It is made with beech wood, a replenishable raw material, and during production up to 95% of the chemicals used are recycled.

Lenzing Modal is CO2-neutral since the production process is integrated with cellulose recovery. “We are working on new specializations and also aim to push the pace of other technological innovations,” van de Kerkhof comments.

www.lenzing.com