Researchers have made significant strides in improving the surface properties of wool fibre through innovative treatments involving liquid ammonia and protease. In a recent study, experts employed liquid ammonia pretreatment followed by protease treatments to enhance the surface modification of wool fabric. The results have been remarkably promising.
Liquid ammonia pretreatment was found to induce specific damage to the surface structure and disulfide bonds present in the keratin of wool. This damage, in turn, greatly intensified the action of protease on the wool surface and catalytic hydrolysis of the cuticle.
The joint treatment of liquid ammonia and protease also demonstrated the ability to alter the secondary structure of wool. In particular, the content of α-helix and random crimp increased, while the content of β-sheet decreased.
Moreover, this combined treatment exhibited a significant enhancement in the shrink resistance of the wool fabric without sacrificing its tensile strength and elongation. This breakthrough not only improves the surface modification of wool but also presents an eco-friendly solution for achieving shrink-resistant finishing.
With the successful application of liquid ammonia and protease treatments, the textile industry now has a potential new method for surface modification, further expanding the myriad applications of liquid ammonia. This advancement undoubtedly brings us closer to sustainable and efficient textile production.
