Lenzing Group, a global leader in wood-based specialty fibers, has partnered with tech start-up Exponent Envirotech to launch Ecohues, an innovative waterless dyeing technology. This breakthrough is now applied to Lenzing'sTencellyocell and modal fibers, as well as LenzingEcovero viscose fibers, marking the first time Ecohues has been used on cellulosic fibers. The collaboration also includes Hong Kong-based knitwear manufacturer Cobalt Fashion, aiming to bring this sustainable dyeing method to the mainstream textile market.

Ecohues offers a significant environmental advantage by using a non-aqueous solvent that is 99.8 per cent reusable, reducing water usage by 95 per cent compared to traditional methods. Traditional dyeing processes require about 120 tons of water per ton of yarn, while Ecohues eliminates this need, streamlining pre-treatment and finishing processes, and reducing dyeing time from 12 hours to 6-8 hours. The technology also cuts out the use of salt, a common dyeing assistant, reducing the salinity in wastewater. It saves 40 per cent on dyestuff and ensures a color fixation rate of over 97 per cent, outperforming traditional dyeing.

Rex Mok, Director of Technical Marketing and Development at Lenzing, highlighted the company's commitment to sustainability, stating that the collaboration is a step towards reforming conventional textile practices. Wesley Choi, Chairman of Exponent Envirotech, emphasized the project's alignment with sustainable production and responsible materials.

The knitwear collection, produced by Cobalt Fashion using Lenzing'sfibers dyed with Ecohues, exemplifies how this technology can enhance performance while meeting consumer demand for style and sustainability. Andrew Dixon, SVP of Merchandising at Cobalt Fashion, stressed the importance of this partnership in reducing carbon emissions and water usage, paving the way for a more sustainable textile industry.