degummálást

Degummálás is a process used in various industries, primarily in the refining of vegetable oils and the processing of silk. In the context of vegetable oils, degummálás refers to the removal of gums, which are a mixture of phospholipids, mucilages, and other minor components. These gums are naturally present in crude vegetable oils and can negatively impact the quality and stability of the final product if not removed. The degummálás process typically involves treating the crude oil with water or a dilute acid, such as phosphoric acid. This causes the gums to hydrate and become insoluble in the oil, allowing them to be separated through centrifugation or settling. Phospholipids, in particular, are removed to prevent them from causing discoloration and off-flavors during further refining steps like bleaching and deodorization.

In the silk industry, degummálás, also known as scouring, is the process of removing sericin, a natural gum that binds the silk filaments together to form the cocoon. Raw silk, as it is harvested, is stiff and dull due to the presence of sericin. Degummálás is achieved by boiling the raw silk in a solution of soap and water. This process softens and dissolves the sericin, allowing the individual silk filaments (fibroin) to separate. The removal of sericin is crucial for achieving the characteristic luster, softness, and drape of silk fabric. It also makes the silk more receptive to dyeing. The degummed silk is then ready for weaving and further finishing processes.