Birla Cellulose’s TRADC Develops Next-Generation Sustainable Scuba Knit Fabric

Scuba knit fabric has emerged as one of the fastest-growing categories in the global apparel industry, valued for its premium appearance, excellent shape retention, wrinkle resistance, and stretch recovery. Widely used in fashion, athleisure, sportswear, travel wear, and performance apparel, conventional scuba fabrics are typically made from polyester, which offers durability but often lacks softness, breathability, and effective moisture management.

To address evolving consumer demand for sustainable and comfort-driven textiles, the Textile Research & Application Development Centre (TRADC), Birla Cellulosic, has developed a next-generation sustainable scuba knit fabric using the PAILUNG KD2.5B Double Jersey Circular Knitting Machine. The fabric combines polyester or nylon on the face side for strength and dimensional stability with Livaeco Modal, Livaeco Lyocell, or Livaeco Viscose on the skin-contact side, delivering enhanced softness, breathability, moisture absorption, and wearer comfort.

Market Opportunity

The global scuba knit fabric market is estimated at USD 1.5-1.8 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6-7% through 2030. India consumes an estimated 45-60 million metres annually, valued at USD 180-250 million, with demand growing 8-10% every year. A significant share of this demand is currently met through imports, highlighting the potential for indigenous innovation and manufacturing.

Fabric Technology

Scuba fabric is an engineered double jersey knitted structure in which cylinder and dial needles knit two interconnected layers simultaneously. This construction provides the characteristic thickness, resilience, dimensional stability, and premium finish associated with scuba fabrics. TRADC's innovation enhances this structure by integrating regenerated cellulosic fibres with synthetic materials, delivering both performance and sustainability.

The hybrid construction enables:

• Strong mechanical performance and shape retention from polyester or nylon.
• Superior softness and skin comfort from Liva-Eco fibres.
• Enhanced moisture management and breathability.
• Improved dye affinity and aesthetic appeal.
• Reduced environmental impact through the use of regenerated cellulosic fibres.

Knitting Machine Technology

The PAILUNG KD2.5B machine enables precise control over fabric construction, ensuring consistent quality across a wide range of scuba fabric variants.

Recommended Machine Specifications

• Machine: PAILUNG Knitting (Model No. KD2.5B)
• Type: Double Jersey Interlock
• Dia/Gauge: 30/28
• Feeders: 72
• Suitable Fabrics: Scuba, Interlock, Ponte Roma, Spacer

Key Technical Features

• Precise stitch-length control
• Stable yarn feeding
• Excellent cylinder-dial synchronization
• Uniform loop formation
• High production stability
• Excellent dimensional control
• Consistent fabric appearance

The sustainable scuba knit fabrics developed by TRADC represent a significant advancement in knitted fabric engineering. By combining the performance advantages of synthetic fibres with the comfort and sustainability benefits of Livaeco Modal, Lyocell, and Viscose, Birla Cellulose has created a versatile fabric platform suited to fashion, athleisure, sportswear, and outerwear applications. The innovation supports growing global demand for premium sustainable textiles while helping reduce India's dependence on imported scuba fabrics.