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Enzymatic Scouring of Textiles Fibers

Detailed Technology Description

University of California researchers have pioneered the use of certain enzymes to modify surface wetting properties of the two most commonly used textile fibers, cotton and polyester. With application of this method, the UC researchers were able to improve wetting, water absorbance, and whiteness of cotton equal to or better than existing alkaline scouring processes. Unlike existing processes, however, the UC method is environmentally acceptable and is suitable for low temperature operations. By substituting enzymes for traditional scouring agents, one can greatly reduce energy and water consumption, reduce the biological oxygen demand of effluents, and facilitate recycling of effluent. In the case of polyesters, enzymatic treatment is a very attractive alternative to the employment of organic and corrosive agents for modifying the wetting, adhesion, and cohesive strength of the fibers. Possessing significant advantages over existing technology for the leading natural and synthetic fibers, the UC enzymatic scouring method has a very strong commercial potential in advanced textile processing.

Supplementary Information

Patent Number: US6066494A
Application Number: US1997952617A
Inventor: Hsieh, You lo | Hartzell, Mary Michelle | Boston, Matthew G. | Clarkson, Kathleen A. | Collier, Katherine D. | Graycar, Thomas P. | Larenas, Edmund A.
Priority Date: 6 Mar 1996
Priority Number: US6066494A
Application Date: 16 Mar 1998
Publication Date: 23 May 2000
IPC Current: D06B002100 | C12S000302 | C12S001100 | D06M001600 | D06M010132
US Class: 435263 | 435277 | 435279
Assignee Applicant: The Regents of the University of California
Title: Enzyme treatment to enhance wettability and absorbency of textiles
Usefulness: Enzyme treatment to enhance wettability and absorbency of textiles
Novelty: Treatment of textile fibres using an enzyme in aqueous medium in absence of surfactant, to alter properties, especially to enhance water wettability and absorbency

Industry

Environmental/Green Technology

Sub Group

Waste Processing

Application No.

6066494

Others

Additional Technologies by these Inventors

Tech ID/UC Case

11412/1995-226-0

Related Cases

1995-226-0

Country/Region

USA

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