Viscose Vs Acrylic: What You Need to Know?

In the diverse world of textiles, fibers play a crucial role in shaping the fabrics we wear and use daily. Two such fibers, viscose and acrylic, stand apart with their unique properties and applications.

Viscose, a semi-synthetic fiber derived from plant-based cellulose, boasts softness, breathability, and a natural feel. In contrast, acrylic, a fully synthetic fiber made from petrochemicals, offers strength, durability, and wool-like warmth.

This introduction sets the stage for exploring the 20 key differences between viscose and acrylic fibers, delving into their composition, environmental impact, versatility, and more, unraveling the distinct strengths and weaknesses of these textile wonders.

Key Differences Between Viscose and Acrylic Fibers

Viscose and acrylic are two different types of synthetic fibers, and they have distinct characteristics. Here are the key differences between viscose and acrylic fibers:

Composition

• Viscose: Viscose is a semi-synthetic fiber derived from cellulose, a plant-based material found in wood pulp or cotton linters. The manufacturing process involves treating the cellulose with chemicals and solvents to extract the raw material, which is then regenerated into fibers. This semi-synthetic nature gives viscose a blend of natural and synthetic properties.
• Acrylic: In contrast, acrylic fibers are entirely synthetic and made from a polymer called polyacrylonitrile. The production process involves polymerization of acrylonitrile monomers. Being a fully synthetic fiber, acrylic lacks any natural components and is purely man-made.

Source

• Viscose: Viscose derives from renewable plant-based resources, making it more environmentally friendly in terms of its source material. The use of wood pulp or cotton linters as the primary source also ensures a sustainable supply chain, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers, on the other hand, do not originate from natural sources. They are entirely derived from petrochemicals, making them reliant on non-renewable resources and contributing to the depletion of fossil fuels.

Environmental Impact

• Viscose: Due to its semi-synthetic nature and plant-based source, viscose is often considered more eco-friendly compared to fully synthetic fibers. However, the manufacturing process of viscose involves the use of chemicals, which can have adverse environmental effects if not managed properly.
• Acrylic: The production of acrylic fibers is energy-intensive and involves the use of non-renewable fossil fuels, leading to a higher carbon footprint compared to viscose. Additionally, acrylic fibers are not biodegradable, posing potential challenges for waste management and microplastic pollution in the environment.

Softness

• Viscose: Viscose fibers are well-known for their exceptional softness and smooth texture. This luxurious feel is reminiscent of natural fibers like cotton and silk, making it a popular choice for creating comfortable and elegant fabrics.
• Acrylic: While acrylic fibers are soft, they lack the silk-like feel of viscose. However, they possess a unique wool-like texture, which makes them a preferred choice for knitting and creating warm, cozy garments.

Drape

• Viscose: Viscose fabrics have excellent drape and flow, making them ideal for clothing items that require fluidity and movement. The supple nature of viscose enhances the way garments hang on the body, creating a flattering and graceful appearance.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers offer moderate drape, but they cannot match the fluidity of viscose. Their drape is more suitable for garments with structured designs, as they provide better shape retention.

Strength

• Viscose: Viscose fibers tend to be weaker when wet, which can make them susceptible to damage during laundering or when exposed to moisture. This weakness can result in reduced tensile strength compared to some other synthetic fibers. However, under dry conditions, viscose fibers can exhibit reasonable strength.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers, being fully synthetic, generally have better strength and tensile properties than viscose. They maintain their strength both when wet and dry, making them more durable in various conditions.

Durability

• Viscose: The durability of viscose fibers is a point of concern. They are less durable compared to many other synthetic fibers and natural fibers like cotton or wool. The fibers can undergo deterioration over time, especially with frequent washing and exposure to harsh conditions.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers are more durable and can withstand repeated use and laundering without significant loss in strength or appearance. They are less prone to wear and tear, making them suitable for garments and textiles that require long-lasting performance.

Shrinkage

• Viscose: Viscose fibers have a tendency to shrink when exposed to moisture and heat. This shrinkage can occur during washing or if the fabric is not cared for properly. As a result, special care is required when handling viscose garments to avoid excessive shrinkage.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers have relatively low shrinkage properties, and they maintain their shape well during washing and drying. They are less likely to shrink compared to natural fibers like cotton or wool.

Sunlight Resistance

• Viscose: Viscose fibers are not as resistant to sunlight as acrylic. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading and degradation of the fibers, leading to a loss of color vibrancy and strength over time.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers exhibit good resistance to sunlight and are less prone to fading or damage caused by UV rays. This makes them suitable for outdoor applications and garments that will be exposed to sunlight frequently.

Pilling

• Viscose: Viscose fibers can be prone to pilling, especially in areas of high friction like underarms or between thighs. Pilling occurs when short fibers on the fabric surface tangle together and form small balls of fiber, affecting the appearance and texture of the fabric.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers have a tendency to pill as well, especially in garments that experience frequent rubbing or abrasion. While pilling can be managed to some extent through proper care, it is still a characteristic to consider when using acrylic fibers.

Moisture Absorption

• Viscose: Viscose fibers have good moisture absorption properties, allowing them to absorb moisture and wick away perspiration from the skin. This makes viscose fabrics comfortable to wear in warm and humid conditions, as they help to keep the wearer cool and dry.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers are hydrophobic, meaning they do not absorb moisture easily. Instead, they tend to repel moisture, which can make them less suitable for garments intended to be worn in hot and sweaty conditions.

Breathability

• Viscose: Viscose fabrics are generally breathable, allowing air to circulate through the fabric and regulate body temperature. This breathability enhances comfort and makes viscose garments suitable for various weather conditions.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers have lower breathability compared to viscose. The hydrophobic nature of acrylic can trap heat and moisture, leading to a less ventilated and potentially less comfortable wearing experience.

Thermal Properties

• Viscose: Viscose fibers have moderate thermal properties. They provide some insulation but are not as effective as natural fibers like wool. Viscose garments are often suitable for mild to moderate weather conditions.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers offer good thermal insulation, similar to wool. They can retain heat and provide warmth, making them a preferred choice for winter garments and cold weather accessories.

Allergy Potential

• Viscose: Viscose fibers are generally considered hypoallergenic and less likely to cause allergic reactions. However, some people with sensitive skin may experience irritation due to the chemicals used in the manufacturing process.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers are also hypoallergenic and generally safe for most people with allergies or sensitive skin. They do not contain natural proteins that can trigger allergic reactions, making them a suitable choice for individuals with wool allergies.

Production Complexity

• Viscose: The production of viscose involves a more complex manufacturing process compared to acrylic. It requires the extraction of cellulose from plant-based materials and the use of various chemicals for fiber regeneration. This complexity can impact the environmental footprint of viscose production.
• Acrylic: Producing acrylic fibers is generally less complex and more straightforward compared to viscose. The polymerization of acrylonitrile monomers is the primary step in the acrylic fiber production process, making it a more streamlined and efficient process.

Cost

• Viscose: Viscose fibers are generally more affordable compared to many other natural fibers like silk or wool. While they might be slightly more expensive than some synthetic fibers, their cost-effectiveness is one of the reasons for their popularity in the textile industry.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers are known for their cost-effectiveness and competitive pricing. They are usually more affordable than natural fibers like wool and cashmere, making them a popular choice for budget-friendly clothing and textiles.

Common Applications

• Viscose: Viscose fibers find application in various clothing items, such as dresses, blouses, shirts, skirts, and summer wear. They are also used in linings, scarves, and other lightweight fabrics. Additionally, viscose fibers are employed in non-woven materials and some home textiles.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers are commonly used in knitwear, including sweaters, cardigans, and scarves. They are also used in blankets, socks, upholstery fabrics, and some outdoor textiles. Acrylic’s wool-like texture makes it a suitable alternative for woolen garments at a more affordable price.

Environmental Impact

• Viscose: While viscose fibers have a plant-based origin and are considered more eco-friendly compared to fully synthetic fibers, their production involves the use of chemicals and solvents. The environmental impact of viscose can vary depending on the manufacturing process and sourcing practices.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers have a higher environmental impact compared to viscose. They are entirely derived from petrochemicals, which are non-renewable resources. The production of acrylic fibers also consumes a significant amount of energy, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

Versatility

• Viscose: Viscose fibers are versatile and can be used to create a wide range of fabrics with different properties. They can mimic the appearance of natural fibers like silk or cotton, making them suitable for both casual and formal wear.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers are also versatile and can be used to create various types of fabrics. They are especially popular for knitting and can imitate the texture of wool, making them suitable for warm, comfortable garments.

Chemical Resistance

• Viscose: Viscose fibers are sensitive to certain chemicals and can be damaged by exposure to harsh substances. Proper care is required to avoid weakening the fibers and maintaining the quality of the fabric.
• Acrylic: Acrylic fibers have good chemical resistance and are less prone to damage from exposure to chemicals. This makes them suitable for applications where resistance to chemical agents is necessary.

Viscose Vs Acrylic: Comparison Table

Feature	Viscose Fiber	Acrylic Fiber
Composition	Semi-synthetic from cellulose	Fully synthetic from polyacrylonitrile
Source	Derived from plant-based materials	Man-made, not from natural resources
Environmental Impact	Considered more eco-friendly	Not biodegradable, synthetic origin
Softness	Very soft and smooth	Soft, with a wool-like texture
Drape	Excellent drape and flow	Moderate drape
Strength	Weaker when wet	Relatively stronger
Durability	Less durable compared to some synthetics	Good resistance to wear
Shrinkage	More prone to shrinkage	Less susceptible to shrinkage
Sunlight Resistance	Moderate resistance to sunlight	Good resistance to fading
Pilling	Minimal pilling in general	Can pill after extended use
Moisture Absorption	Absorbs moisture well	Repels moisture
Breathability	Provides good breathability	Moderately breathable
Thermal Properties	Less heat retention	Provides warmth like wool
Allergy Potential	Generally hypoallergenic	Can cause allergies in some individuals
Production Complexity	Complex manufacturing process	Less complex production
Cost	Often more expensive than acrylic	Generally more affordable
Common Applications	Clothing (dresses, blouses, etc.)	Knitwear, sweaters, blankets, etc.
Environmental Impact	Considered more eco-friendly	Not biodegradable, synthetic origin
Versatility	Suitable for various fabric types	Versatile for different applications
Chemical Resistance	Sensitive to certain chemicals	Resistant to many chemicals

Frequently Asked Questions

To Recap

The comparison between viscose and acrylic fibers reveals a diverse array of properties and applications. Viscose shines with its natural origin, softness, and breathability, making it an excellent choice for comfortable clothing and non-woven materials.

On the other hand, acrylic impresses with its cost-effectiveness, strength, and warmth, making it a preferred option for knitwear and cold-weather garments.

Both fibers have their advantages and limitations, and the decision between them should be based on specific needs, environmental considerations, and desired performance.

Understanding these distinctions empowers us to make informed choices in the dynamic world of textile production and consumption.