The Development of a Bio-Scouring Process for Raw Wool Using Protease

Abstract

The use of protease in the raw wool scouring process was investigated. Both native protease and an enlarged protease prepared by chemical modification were used. It was demonstrated that enzymatic treatment with protease in the scouring process (bio-scouring) can achieve cleaning of the fibre and modification of the cuticle layer leading to shrink-resistance. A reduction of lipid content was found and led to an improvement in dyeability of the fibre.