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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #179611
Title: ACTIVATED PEROXIDE-ASSISTED ENZYMATIC CONTROL OF WOOL SHRINKAGE

Author
item Cardamone, Jeanette
item YAO, JIMING - FORMER VISITING SCIENTIST

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 5/15/2005
Publication Date: 9/1/2005
Citation: Cardamone, J.M., Yao, J. 2005. Activated peroxide-assisted enzymatic control of wool shrinkage [abstract]. 11th International Wool Research Conference. p. 36CCF.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: To control the dimensional stability of wool, enzymes can modify the scalar surface structure by proteolysis of the polypeptide network so that the surface properties no longer assist in entanglement. Wool is resistant to enzyme attack. Efficient enzymatic systems generally include a reducing agent to rupture peptide linkages and cystine disulfide cross-linkages by hydrolysis and oxidation. We have designed effective systems to control shrinkage by pretreating wool with a stable, activated peroxide followed by proteolysis treatment with either serine or cysteine protease. In the ARS patented process for whitening, biopolishing, and shrinkage control wool fabrics are pretreated at 30º C for 30 minutes with a powerful, stable peroxide, peroxycarboximide, formed from dicyandiamide and alkaline hydrogen peroxide with gluconic acid stabilizer for sustained whitening. Subsequent treatment at 45ºC for 40 minutes with serinase assisted by sodium sulfite or unassisted cysteinase applied at 50°C for 60 minutes biopolishes and controls the shrinkage of wool woven and knit fabrics of various fabric weights and constructions without appreciable loss in strength or elastic recovery. The process provides bleached, biopolished, machine-washable wool that can be worn with "itch-free" comfort.