Enzyme Treatment of Textile Fibers
topic
Enzymatic fiber modification uses biocatalysts under mild conditions (40–60°C, pH 4.5–8.0) for targeted surface modification. Cellulases (0.5–2.0% owf) remove surface fuzz from cotton, improving pilling resistance by 2–3 grades (EN ISO 12945) and producing peach-skin effects with 3–5% weight loss. Proteases (0.5–1.5% owf) degum silk and soften wool. Amylases remove starch sizing at 60–70°C in 20–30 minutes. Laccases selectively oxidize indigo for denim finishing, saving 40–60% water versus pumice stone washing. Enzyme cost is $0.05–0.20/kg fabric.
Role
Enables sustainable, low-energy textile processing replacing harsh chemical and mechanical treatments, reducing water consumption by 30–50% and effluent load significantly across bio-finishing, desizing, and denim processing applications.