ABSTRACT
In regard to new applications, resulting from the design of enzymes for specific processes, there is a demand for extensive collaboration between bio and textile chemists. In textile processing the enzymatic removal of starch sizes from woven fabrics has been in use for most of this century. Bioprocessing also offers the potential for new industrial processes that require less energy and are based on renewable raw materials. Moreover, there is a potential for replacing the alkaline scouring in cotton pre-treatment by the use of enzymes like, for example, pectinases. In wool finishing, enzymes, mainly proteases, are used to achieve shrink proofing. The properties of wool textiles like handle, whiteness and lustre are modified by enzyme catalysed reactions as well. Furthermore, bioprocesses are described leading to pilling reduction and dye ability improvement.
