Enzyme washed
Also known as: Enzyme wash, Bio-wash
Wash with cellulase enzymes that trims fibre ends and creates a softer, smoother hand.
Description
Enzyme washed (also bio-wash or enzyme wash) refers to a washing process that uses cellulase enzymes to break down the tiny surface fibrils of cotton. The result: a smooth, much softer surface with reduced pilling tendency and richer colour. The process runs at 40-55 degrees in slightly acidic conditions (pH 4.5-5.5) for 30-60 minutes in industrial drum washers.
On denim the enzyme wash increasingly replaces classic stone wash with pumice: cellulases achieve similar fading and softening as stones but save water, avoid mechanical wear on machines and give reproducible results. After treatment enzymes are inactivated by heating to 80 degrees or a pH shift so no further breakdown occurs.
Advantages: lower water consumption than stone wash, no sludge, consistent reproducibility. Downside: the fabric slightly loses tensile strength, so the process is controlled carefully. Enzyme washed goods are considered premium softness in retail, ideal for baby and everyday basics.
Properties
| Process | Cellulases at 40-55 °C, pH 4.5-5.5 |
|---|---|
| Result | Soft smooth hand, less pilling |
| Colour fastness | Slight colour fading is intended |
Related product categories
Sources & references
2- Wikipedia: Cellulase Wikipedia — Freie Enzyklopädie https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cellulase
- Novozymes Denim Finishing novozymes.com https://www.novozymes.com/en/solutions/textile
