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Sustainable Textile Wet Processing: Applications of Enzymes

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Roadmap to Sustainable Textiles and Clothing

Part of the book series: Textile Science and Clothing Technology ((TSCT))

Abstract

Enzymes are a sustainable alternative to the harsh toxic chemicals in the textile industry. As enzymes operate in moderate conditions of temperature and pH, energy consumption is reduced, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Both water consumption and waste generation during textile manufacturing are also minimized by enzyme use. As the enzymes are very specific in their actions, minimum by-products are generated. The risks to humans, wildlife, and the environment are minimized. Enzymes can be utilized in several steps of textile processing namely desizing, scouring, bleaching, and biopolishing of cotton, degumming of silk, bleaching and shrinkproofing of wool, biostoning (of denim), and for treatment of textile effluents.

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  1. Government College of Engineering and Textile Technology, Hooghly, Serampore, 712201, West Bengal, India

    A. K. Roy Choudhury

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  1. SGS Hong Kong Limited,, Eco-design Consultant, Global Sustainability Services, Hong Kong,Hong Kong SAR, China

    Subramanian Senthilkannan Muthu

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Roy Choudhury, A.K. (2014). Sustainable Textile Wet Processing: Applications of Enzymes. In: Muthu, S. (eds) Roadmap to Sustainable Textiles and Clothing. Textile Science and Clothing Technology. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-287-065-0_7

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