biopolishing

Biopolishing is an enzymatic finishing process applied to cellulosic fabrics such as cotton, viscose, linen, and their blends to improve fabric appearance and hand feel by removing protruding fibers and microfibers from the surface.

The process uses cellulase enzymes to hydrolyze the amorphous regions of cellulose on the fiber surface. As a result, loose fuzz is removed and the fabric surface becomes smoother, with reduced pilling tendency and improved luster and dye uniformity.

Typical processing conditions involve an enzymatic bath containing cellulase at a pH around 4.5–6.0 and temperatures of about 40–60°C, with treatment times of 15–60 minutes. After treatment, the fabric is thoroughly rinsed, neutralized to stop enzyme activity, and washed as required before finishing.

Biopolishing is widely used on cotton and cotton blends and can be integrated into standard finishing lines. Benefits include a softer hand, reduced fuzz and pilling, improved fabric smoothness, and potentially better dye uptake. It can lower the need for some mechanical finishing steps such as singeing or calendering, and may reduce energy use, though overall environmental impact depends on process control and effluent treatment. Limitations include the risk of over-processing which can weaken fibers, alter fabric appearance, or affect strength; careful enzyme selection, bath chemistry, and process control are important. Economic considerations include enzyme cost and compatibility with production lines.