Cellulosic Fibre Hydrolysis Kinetics in Exhaust Dyehouse Operations
Exhaust cellulosic dyeing demands progressive alkali dosing and strict pH control to prevent glycosidic cleavage from destroying fabric bursting strength.
Cellulase Biopolishing
Enzymatic Treatment
Biological finishing process utilizing specific proteins to remove protruding surface fibres improves the handle and appearance of cellulosic fabrics. Cellulase biopolishing targets the micro-fibrils that create fuzz and pilling on the surface of cotton or lyocell yarns. The enzymes hydrolyze the beta-1,4-glycosidic bonds in the cellulose, causing the weakened hairs to detach through mechanical agitation in the washer.
Reaction time determines the final effect.
Surface Modification
Resulting textures appear smoother and exhibit a higher resistance to pilling during the life of the garment. Applying cellulase biopolishing also deepens the perceived shade of the dye by removing the light-scattering fuzz that normally dulls the color. This effect remains permanent because the structural change happens at the molecular level.
Loss Management
Weight reduction occurs as a direct result of removing the surface material. Careful monitoring of cellulase biopolishing prevents the excessive loss of tensile strength that happens if the enzyme penetrates too deeply into the core of the yarn. A typical mass reduction of three to five percent is common for achieving softness.
pH Control
Activity levels of the protein depend on the acidity or alkalinity of the treatment bath. If the environment shifts away from the optimal range, cellulase biopolishing stops working or becomes too aggressive. Neutralizing the enzyme with heat terminates the reaction.