Pretreatment
Highly Concentrated Desizing Enzyme
An amylase enzyme preparation that breaks down starch-based size on grey fabric so it washes out cleanly, without attacking the cotton fibre.
Process stage & fibres
| Process stage | Pretreatment |
|---|---|
| Fibres suited | Cotton and cotton-blend woven fabric carrying a starch or modified-starch size. |
Function
This is an enzyme preparation that breaks down starch-based size on grey fabric so it rinses out cleanly, without damaging the cotton fibre itself. It is used at the start of pretreatment, before scouring, on fabric that has been sized for weaving. It gives a cleaner base for dyeing than an acid or oxidative desize, and it is gentler on the fabric's strength and handle.
Typical applications and what it solves
- Residual starch size causing patchy, resist-like dye uptake downstream
- Replacing an acid or oxidative desize where fibre strength or handle is a concern
- Speeding up desizing on heavily sized fabric ahead of scouring
Technical data
| Ionic nature | Not applicable, enzyme preparation rather than an ionic surfactant |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble/dispersible in water |
| Compatibility | Do not combine with strong oxidants, strong acids or strong alkalis, or run at temperatures above the enzyme's stated working range. All of these will denature the enzyme and stop it working. Confirm the working pH and temperature window against the supplier TDS before bulking. |
| Storage and shelf life | Store in a cool place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Enzyme preparations lose activity over time, and more quickly if stored warm. |
Disclaimer: The information above is general reference information for this class of auxiliary. It is not a certificate of analysis or a safety data sheet. Please request the current TDS and MSDS before use.
Handling and storage
Handle with gloves, eye protection and, where dust is generated, a dust mask. Enzyme proteins can be a respiratory sensitiser with repeated exposure, so avoid breathing dust or mist.