What are the main applications of regenerated cellulose (rayon)?

Regenerated cellulose, commonly known as rayon, has a wide range of applications due to its versatile properties and relatively low cost. A primary application is in textiles and apparel, where rayon is used to make clothing, linings, and home furnishings. Rayon fabrics are known for their soft texture, good drape, and breathability, making them comfortable to wear. In industrial applications, rayon is used to produce tire cords, reinforcing agents for rubber products, and filtration membranes. The high strength and dimensional stability of rayon fibers make them suitable for these applications. In absorbent products, rayon is used in feminine hygiene products, diapers, and wound dressings due to its high absorbency and biodegradability. In medical applications, rayon is used to make surgical sponges, sutures, and drug delivery systems. Its biocompatibility and biodegradability make it a suitable material for these purposes. In the paper industry, rayon fibers are added to paper pulp to improve the strength, softness, and absorbency of paper products. In nonwoven fabrics, rayon is used to make wipes, cleaning cloths, and disposable garments. The ability to control the fiber properties and fabric structure allows for the production of nonwovens with specific performance characteristics. Different types of rayon, such as viscose rayon, modal, and lyocell, have slightly different properties and are used in various applications. For example, lyocell is known for its high strength and environmental friendliness, while viscose rayon is more widely used due to its lower cost.