Enzymatic treatments for sustainable textile processing

This chapter provides information about major enzymes used either in commercial textile processes or in current advanced research to improve the performance of textile materials. The use of enzymes in textiles has also been applied to textile surface design to achieve unique surface patterning. The environmental impact of the use of enzymes in the textile processing in comparison to conventional processing has been discussed. There is a bright future for enzyme-based biotechnology to be implemented in the textile industry and to make a contribution to textile sustainabihty. 

Enzymes are biological catalysts for specific chemical reactions and require comparatively mild conditions. All enzymes are proteins and biodegradable. The precise 

First digit of EC number (group) Enzyme class Type of reaction catalyzed 

2 Transferases Transfer of an atom or group between two molecules 

4 Lyases Removal of a group from substrate (not by hydrolysis) 

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