Enzymes, the eco-friendly and sustainable alternative textile solutions
The textile industry has been a major contributor to environmental pollution and health hazards due to the use of harsh chemicals in traditional textile processing. However, with the advent of enzymes in textile processing, sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives have emerged. Enzymes are biomolecules that catalyze chemical reactions and are naturally occurring, biodegradable, and non-toxic. They are now widely used in various textile processes, such as bio-scouring, sizing/de-sizing, biopolishing or Denim washing, bio-stoning, and peroxide removal or bleach cleanup.
Pectinase is an enzyme that breaks down pectin, a complex carbohydrate found in plant cell walls. In textile processing, it is used in bio-scouring, which involves removing impurities, waxes, and other non-cellulosic materials from cotton fibers. Pectinase helps to break down the pectin component of these impurities, resulting in cleaner and smoother cotton fibers.
Amylases are enzymes that break down starch, a carbohydrate found in many plants. In textile processing, they are used in sizing/de-sizing, which involves adding or removing a layer of starch on the surface of the fabric to give it smoothness, stiffness, or shape. Amylases help to remove this starch layer from the fabric, resulting in softer and more flexible fabrics.
Cellulases are enzymes that break down cellulose, a polysaccharide found in plant cell walls. In textile processing, they are used in biopolishing or Denim washing, which involves treating the fabric with an enzyme solution to remove excess fibers and create a worn-out look. Cellulases help to break down the cellulose component of the fabric, resulting in a softer and more textured feel.
Catalase is an enzyme that breaks down hydrogen peroxide, a bleaching agent commonly used in textile processing. In textile processing, it is used in peroxide removal or bleach cleanup, which involves removing excess hydrogen peroxide from the fabric after bleaching, and in this way protecting fabric and reducing environmental pollution.
In conclusion, enzymes have revolutionized the textile industry by providing sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to harsh chemicals in traditional textile processing. Pectinase, amylases, cellulases, and catalase are some of the enzymes used in various textile processes, and each enzyme has a specific working mechanism and effect on the fabric. The use of enzymes in textile processing not only reduces environmental pollution and health hazards but also enhances the quality and texture of fabrics.
By following the latest developments in textile industry, Sunson has never stopped its efforts in developing new enzymatic textile solutions. Series of enzyme products have been put onto the market and are welcome by big numbers of customers worldwide.
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