The Effects of Ultrasound on the Performance of Industrial Enzymes Used in Cotton Bio-Preparation/Bio-Finishing Applications

SUMMARY

Utilization of various highly specific enzymes for bio-finishing/bio-preparation processing of cellulosic fibers is becoming increasingly popular because it enables the textile industry to replace harsh organic/inorganic chemicals, sharply decreasing the quantity and toxicity of textile wastewater effluents. However, enzymatic processing of cotton, in addition to all its environmental benefits, has several important shortcomings, such as more expensive processing costs and slower reaction rates. Our laboratory scale studies found that introduction of ultrasonic energy during enzymatic bio-preparation/bio-finishing of cotton textiles significantly improved enzyme performance but did not contribute to a decrease in fabric strength. Experimental data indicate that the maximum benefit provided by sonication of enzyme processing solution occurred at lower enzyme concentrations than recommended by the manufacturer.

Key Words:

• Cotton
• enzyme
• ultrasound
• textile processing