Grasim Industries’ Pulp & Fibre business, through its Textile Research and Development Centre (TRADC), has developed an innovative Scuba Knit fabric made with Livaeco regenerated cellulosic fibres, offering a sustainable alternative for the rapidly growing performance and athleisure apparel segment.

Scuba fabric is a premium engineered knit valued for its smooth surface, excellent shape retention, stretch recovery, and wrinkle resistance. Widely used in athleisure, activewear, and premium fashion garments, it is among the fastest-growing knit fabric categories globally.

The newly developed fabric combines the structural performance and durability associated with conventional scuba fabrics with the softness, breathability and comfort of man-made cellulosic fibres (MMCFs). The innovation aims to address growing demand for sustainable textile solutions without compromising on functionality or aesthetics.

According to Grasim, the development represents a significant step toward expanding the use of regenerated cellulosic fibres in high-growth apparel applications. By integrating sustainability, comfort, and premium performance characteristics, the fabric offers brands and manufacturers a viable MMCF-based alternative for modern apparel collections.

Commenting on the development, Murugan T, President – Marketing & Business Development, Grasim Industries, said, “The future of performance textiles lies in delivering comfort, functionality and sustainability together, not as trade-offs but as complementary strengths.”

He added that regenerated cellulosic fibres are creating new opportunities in high-growth apparel categories and helping redefine textiles that are better for consumers, performance requirements, and the environment.

Grasim stated that the innovation has the potential to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities, support import substitution and create new opportunities in the premium apparel and athleisure markets, while advancing the industry’s sustainability goals.