Effect of Transglutaminase Enzyme on Physico-mechanical Properties of Rambouillet Wool Fiber

ABSTRACT

Rambouillet wool fiber was scoured and treated with transglutaminase (TG) enzyme for different concentrations and duration at neutral pH at 45°C. The physical, mechanical, dyeing, and antimicrobial properties of the wool fiber before and after enzymatic treatment were evaluated as per standard methods. Results inferred that TG enzyme-treated wool fiber sample showed improvement in softness, luster, and tensile strength in comparison with scoured wool fiber. It is found that 0.5% TG enzyme treatment at 45°C for 60 min at pH 7 was an optimum condition. Scanning electron microscope images also confirmed the flattened and smooth scales of wool fiber after enzymatic treatment.

摘要

采用转谷氨酰胺酶对Rambouillet羊毛纤维进行中性pH45°C下不同浓度和不同时间的洗涤和处理。对酶处理前后羊毛纤维的物理、力学性能、染色性能和抗菌性能进行了评价。结果表明，经谷氨酰胺转胺酶处理的羊毛纤维与经精练处理的羊毛纤维相比，柔软度、光泽、拉伸强度均有所提高。结果表明，在45℃下，在pH为7的条件下，0.5%转谷氨酰胺酶处理60分钟是最佳条件。SEM图像还证实了羊毛纤维经酶处理后平整光滑的鳞片。

KEYWORDS:

• Wool
• Rambouillet
• transglutaminase
• antimicrobial activity
• enzyme finish

Acknowledgments

The authors acknowledge Mr. Davinder Singh, Punjab Agricultural University, for his contribution in statistical analysis.