Rayon

Rayon, also called viscose, is a semi-synthetic fiber made from natural sources of regenerated cellulose, such as wood and related agricultural products. It has the same molecular structure as cellulose. Many types and grades of rayon fibers and films exist. Some imitate the feel and texture of natural fibers such as silk, wool, cotton, and linen. It can be woven or knitted to make textiles for clothing and other purposes. Rayon production involves solubilizing cellulose fibers. Three common methods are as follows:

• The cuprammonium process (obsolete), using ammoniacal solutions of copper salts
• The viscose process (most common) using alkali and carbon disulfide
• The Lyocell process, using amine oxide, avoids neurotoxic carbon disulfide but is more expensive