With comfortemp Lyocell padding, Freudenberg Performance Materials Apparel is launching the first fully biodegradable padding made from sustainably produced cellulose fiber that completely degrades in soil within 60 days. At the same time, it meets all requirements for high-performance thermal insulation for sports and outdoor clothing. comfortemp Lyocell padding is the result of a cooperative venture with the fiber manufacturer Lenzing. The innovative thermal insulation will be launched onto the market in January 2020 and will be presented for the first time at ISPO from January 26 to 29 in Hall 2, Booth 4.04. 

The degradation of polyester, which is contained in 60% of all garments, takes an average of 500 years. In addition to reduced consumption, more recycling and increasing the quality of garments to ensure that they can be worn for longer, innovative ecological solutions are urgently needed for the end of the garment life cycle. Freudenberg is a pioneer in this field and is now launching comfortemp Lyocell padding, the world’s first 100% biodegradable padding. It is completely biodegradable within 60 days without polluting the soil.

The padding is based on Lyocell, which is manufactured by fiber producer Lenzing. Lyocell is a cellulose produced from natural raw materials in an environmentally friendly production process using eucalyptus wood from sustainable forests. The solvent used to obtain the fibers is almost completely reused in the production cycle, which is a clear advantage over other cellulose fibers such as viscose. The EU has presented the process with the European Award for the Environment. “This innovation is the result of intensive research and close cooperation between Freudenberg and Lenzing. As an ecologically responsible manufacturer of special fibers from the renewable raw material wood, the Lenzing Group is a perfect partner for Freudenberg,” comments Benoit Cugnet, head of Global Strategic Marketing at Freudenberg Performance Materials Apparel.

The fine fibers created from the natural raw material and their innovative processing enable comfortemp Lyocell padding to be as light as a feather and as efficient as synthetic paddings. The thermal insulation provides warmth and is both soft and highly breathable. Thanks to its excellent moisture management, the padding absorbs body moisture up to 45% and thus minimizes perspiration. The thermal insulation is also water-repellent, dries quickly, is antistatic and conforms to the OEKO-TEX 100 standard. Consequently, comfortemp Lyocell padding meets the high demands placed on clothing for sports and outdoor use. “Although the end consumer usually rarely sees or even thinks about the padding, it makes a decisive contribution. After all, it needs to offer protection in all weathers and be able to handle all kinds of sporting activities,” explains Cugnet.

The cohesive padding prevents fiber migration through the outer fabric and is offered by the meter. This means less time and cost for the industry and no cold bridges at the seams for the end consumer.