The manufacture of bamboo fabrics has been involved in some controversy due to some unnatural and unhealthy processing methods that have been used. However, it should be noted that the manufacturing of cotton has been using the same decades old chemical processes in question.
To be straightforward, in the production of fabrics there are three fundamental procedures commonly used: chemical, nano tech, and mechanical.
Cost over Purity
The chemical processing of bamboo is quite the same as that used for rayon fabrics, and even the derivative quality of bamboo fiber cloth is very much the same.
The procedure for chemically processed bamboo includes a step where the raw bamboo leaves and shoots are immersed again and again in so called chemical solvents in order to soften them. At least two of the chemicals used are shown to induce severe health problems. This, of course, makes the resulting bamboo textile quite the opposite of beneficial, and counters the raw material’s ability to be maintained and environment safe aspects.
This type of processing is highly favorable for most manufacturers, however, because it is quick and simple, and ultimately very economical for them.
A Natural Compromise
Although some textile factories have shifted to using mild chemicals in their processing methods, they are still considered chemicals.
The primary current means for processing bamboo is modern nanotechnology. Despite the fact that the practice is kept away from the public eye, the basic procedure involves burning old, dried bamboo from which a charcoal is produced. Nanoparticles are derived from this charcoal and ingrained into other material like cotton, polyester, and nylon. The end product that is blended with bamboo fibers is a yarn that is ultimately woven into fabrics.
But still, it uses fibers that are considered synthetic or untenable. What is more, the active bamboo charcoal particles contained in the cloth are only effective for about six months.
Genuinely Organic
The legitimately traditional way of processing bamboo is the mechanical manner. This method is the same as how linen is produced – without any introduction of chemical elements to the raw bamboo in the bamboo fiber extraction process.
Even though this is a more excellent procedure, it requires more effort and therefore lowers the possibility of higher gain for manufacturers.
Mechanical processing calls for the crushing of woody bamboo shoots and then introducing natural enzymes in order to break it down further so that it can be mechanically combed and spun into yarn. Only a few manufacturers follow this ancient and truly organic way of processing because it is costly. However, bamboo pillow, bedding, and clothing retailers who are conscientiously eco-friendly will always look for trustworthy manufacturers to get their products from. Few consumers would be willing to purchase these products at a high cost, even though it would be worth it as a sensible investment in health and comfort.
The increase in demand for authentic organic bamboo fiber products has brought the purchasing price down, made regulations stricter, and pressured manufacturers to sustain trustworthiness in processing. As people become more responsible about health and environmental concerns and governments are pushed to conform their budgets to this trend, the production of bamboo fiber should also become increasingly ecological.