Modal

Definition and Overview

Modal is a regenerated cellulose fiber made by once dissolving cellulose derived from wood and regenerating it into fibers. It is classified as a type of rayon, but it is generally handled as a type with improved wet strength and dimensional stability compared with ordinary rayon.

The properties of the textile vary greatly depending on thread thickness, weave or knit structure, finishing, and the fibers blended with it. Therefore, it is important not to judge thickness, elasticity, sheerness, or wash durability from the material name Modal alone, and to check the textile specifications and test results.

Texture and Function

It is a material with a smooth surface and a tendency to have a soft, supple texture. In knits, it easily creates a drape that conforms to the body, and in woven fabrics, it can create an appearance that makes use of drape. Luster depends on the thread and finishing, but some have a subdued sheen.

As a cellulose-based fiber, it has moisture absorption and is also used for underwear and clothing close to the skin. On the other hand, performance such as water absorption, quick-drying, strength, and pilling varies greatly depending on the blend ratio, knitting density, and processing conditions, so confirmation according to the applications is necessary.

• When blended with polyurethane, it is used for lightweight knits with stretch.
• When blended with polyester, the balance with ease of handling and strength may be adjusted.
• When blended with cotton, it may combine a natural look with a soft texture.

Main Applications

It is used for cut-and-sew items, T-shirts, innerwear, lingerie, nightwear, and other products that require softness, moisture absorption, and drape. For lightweight to medium-weight materials, it is also suitable for blouses, shirts, dresses, and skirts.

It is distributed not only as a single material but also as a blended textile with cotton, polyester, polyurethane, and others. Not limited to spring and summer use, it is also used for autumn and winter underwear and layered items depending on designs such as fuzzy or thick knits.

Selection and Handling Precautions

During planning, check the blend ratio, industry weight, structure, stretch, and sheerness, as well as shrinkage after washing, skew, pilling, and color fastness. Especially for cut-and-sew items, changes in length and width after washing affect product dimensions, so washing tests should be carried out in advance under the same conditions as mass production.

For washing, follow the product washing instructions first and handle it while minimizing friction and twisting. Since the textile may stretch when wet, avoid strong wringing and hanging it up while heavy, and hanging it after reshaping helps suppress distortion.

In sewing, take care to prevent seam stretching, waviness, and seam breakage in thin or soft knits. Match the needle, thread, and feeding conditions to the textile, use differential feed or stabilizing materials if necessary, and carry out sewing tests before mass production.

Differences from Similar Terms

Rayon is a general term for regenerated cellulose fibers, and Modal is one of them. Compared with ordinary rayon, Modal is distinguished as a fiber designed with wet strength and shape stability in mind, but actual performance should be checked for each textile design.

Lyocell is also a regenerated cellulose fiber made from wood pulp, but the manufacturing process differs. Cupro is also a type of regenerated cellulose fiber and is mainly used for linings and applications that make use of drape. Even though these materials have similar raw materials, their texture, tendency to fibrillate, applications, and handling differ.

Frequently Asked Questions