Soy Fibers, Eco-Friendly Textile
Soybean is a crop that has been found to have numerous uses, apart from being food stuff. When manufactured into soymilk, tofu, or soybean oil, it leaves dregs that is considered waste materials. However, as early as 1940s and subsequent technological advancements have found ways to make use of this by-product. Protein liquids from these dregs are extracted and are made to go through the process of wet-spinning, are solidified to form the fibers. The fibers are spun into yarns, ready to be manufactured into clothing. Further use of the dregs that are produced from this process are also used as fodder or fertilizer, so you can be sure that no by-product of soy manufacturing goes to waste.
Why should you go with Soy Fibers?
So, of all the available fibers in the market, why should consumers choose soy fibers? Well, for one thing, using soy fibers is an environmentally friendly practice. This kind of fiber is classified as green textiles, a part of the greater movement of transforming business practices and policies into ecologically-friendly ones. Clothing made from this fiber is biodegradable, so you can make sure that you are contributing your share in protecting Mother Nature. Unlike other man-made fibers, the manufacturing process does not include any petrochemicals, preventing the release of harmful substances to the environment. Soy fiber is also proven to have the capability to retain warmth and moisture transmission. This feature makes this fiber suitable for making baby clothing. It has texture comparable to cashmere, and is soft to touch. In terms of strength, soy fibers are quite tensile. One company, Babysoy, specializes in manufacturing clothes for infants and children using quality soy fibers.
SoySilk is also another company that produces soy fibers that are marketed to be comparable to silk. The company boasts of elegant products that are not only comfortable to wear, but also sanitary and suitable for any condition. Other manufacturers also combine this fiber with wool for added elasticity.
Cleaning soy fibers is also relatively easy, as it is machine-washable and can be air dried. Take care not to wash it in warm water, though, as this can destroy the protein structure and integrity of the fiber itself.
Soybeans are here to stay
Being a crop that is easily grown and harvested, there is no foreseeable shortage of soybeans in the U.S. and in other countries. Being relatively cheap and with no complicated manufacturing processes required, soy fiber production has an excellent future and prospect in the textile industry.
So do make the conscious decision to know more about soy fibers and buy clothing made from them. After all, you can always be stylish and fashionable while being good to your environment at the same time.
