Eco Sisal
Natural Fibre Alternative
Eco sisal, a deeper look into the sustainable properties of this natural fibre material.
Description
♦ Fibre made from the large spear shaped tropical leaves of the Agave Sisalana plant
♦ A member of the cactus family
♦ Fibres are from the outer leaf skin, removing the inner pulp
♦ Fine fibre available as plaid, herringbone and twill
♦ Small or large boucle
♦ Available with or without backing
♦ Weave and yarn appear thickly textured
Uses
♦ Woven floor covering, floor tiles, rugs
♦ Wall coverings, wainscoting and fabric panels
♦ Handbags, shopping bags – great alternative to plastic
Advantages
♦ Hoover easily removes dirt
♦ Anti static
♦ Does not attract or trap dust particles
♦ Does not absorb moisture or water easily
♦ Can be prone to spilled water marking
♦ The fine texture takes dyes easily
♦ Offers the largest range of dyed colours of all natural fibres
♦ Good sound and impact absorbing properties
♦ Fibre is exceptionally durable
♦ Low maintenance with minimal wear and tear
♦ Leaves can be treated with natural borax for fire resistance properties
♦ Can reduce the level of sound transmitted between walls
Disadvantages
♦ Absorbs air humidity leading to a small amount of expanding and contracting (rugs and unsecured edges may curl)
♦ Fibre is too tough for textiles and fabrics
♦ Not suitable for a smooth wall finish
♦ Not recommended for wet areas
♦ Flooring: in areas of heavy use matting may occur
♦ Some plantations have destroyed natural forests to agricultural land
Embodied Energy
♦ Low level of energy used in manufacturing
♦ High overall level of embodied energy from transportation and distribution
Source/Origin
♦ Native to Mexico
♦ Brazil and China are the main source
Renewable
♦ Highly renewable resource
♦ Plant matures in approx 4 years
♦ Harvesting and manufacturing waste are returned to the earth
Environment & Health
♦ Zero pesticides or chemical fertilisers used in sisal agriculture
♦ Stain protection made from polymers contains VOCs
♦ Manufacture does not use formaldehyde or VOC causing components
♦ Adhesive used for fixing the product to the surface should not contain VOCs
Performance
♦ Hardest wearing natural floor covering
♦ Durability reduces the need for maintenance
Recyclable
♦ N/A
Disposal / Biodegradable
♦ Fully biodegradable
Go back to the Eco materials main page
Return from Eco sisal to the homepage
|
