Trends in bio-processing of textiles: A review

Abstract

This review highlights the use of enzymes in textile industry. Amylases have been used for desizing since the middle of the last century. The industrial use of biotechnology is bringing about new products and processes aimed at the use of renewable resources, as well as the application of green technologies with low energy consumption and environmentally acceptable processes. Textile processing is a growing industry that has traditionally used a lot of water, en-ergy and harsh chemicals. Due to the ever growing costs of water and energy worldwide, the investigations are carried out to substitute conventional chemi-cal textile processes by environmentally friendly and economically attractive bioprocesses using enzymes. The application of cellulases for denim finishing and laccases for decolourization of textile effluents, and textile bleaching are most recent commercial advances. New developments rely on the modifica-tion of natural and synthetic fibres. This work represents a review of enzyme applications in textile processes. The described bio-processings were accom-panied by a significantly lower consumption of energy, water, chemicals, time and costs. So it has advantages as well as in terms of ecology as in economy.