The Role of Enzymes in the Textile Industry

What are enzymes? In nature, plants, animals, and microorganisms all contain enzymes because they play a vital role in cell function. Enzymes have been used in the winemaking and food processing industries for many years. Currently, these enzymes are widely used in fabric and garment processing, giving textiles more unique effects. Today, let's learn about the enzyme products used in the textile industry.

1. Desizing Enzymes

Desizing is the first step in the wet processing of textiles. Traditionally, chemical methods were used for desizing, but enzymatic methods have become a more efficient alternative. Amylases are the most commonly used desizing enzymes. They can specifically break down starch, which is commonly used as a sizing agent in the weaving process. This enzymatic desizing process is highly specific, gentle on fabrics, and environmentally friendly. It reduces the use of irritating chemicals, and the decomposition products are easily removed, leaving the fabric clean and facilitating subsequent processing.

2. Biopolishing Enzymes

Biopolishing is a process that uses cellulase to improve the surface appearance and quality of cellulosic fabrics such as cotton. Cellulase acts on the protruding fibers on the fabric surface, hydrolyzing them. This results in a smoother fabric surface, reduced pilling, and improved color brightness. Biopolishing also enhances fabric softness and absorbency. Compared to mechanical methods, enzymatic biopolishing is easier to control and causes less damage to the fabric structure.

3. Bleaching Enzymes

Enzymes also play a crucial role in the bleaching process. Peroxidases and laccases can be components of enzymatic bleaching systems. These enzymes can activate hydrogen peroxide or other oxidants under relatively mild conditions. Enzymatic bleaching reduces energy consumption and the amount of strong oxidants used. Furthermore, because this process is more selective and gentler than traditional bleaching methods, it helps maintain the strength and quality of the fabric.

4. Dyeing Enzymes

Enzymes can be used to improve dyeing processes. For example, some enzymes can alter the fiber surface, making it easier for dyes to absorb. This contributes to more uniform dyeing, better colorfastness, and lower dye consumption. Enzymes can also be used to remove excess dye after dyeing, thereby improving the overall quality of dyed fabrics.

In summary, enzymes provide more efficient, environmentally friendly, and fabric-friendly processing methods at all stages of textile production, thus revolutionizing the textile industry.

Sylic offers a wide range of enzyme products for textile dyeing. For more information on our enzyme products, please contact: info@sylicglobal.com