Bio-Antifelting Treatment of Wool-Fiber Based on Ficin: Improvement and Effect on Dyeing with the Reseda luteola Plant

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of ficin enzyme as a new antifelting agent acting on wool yarn and fabric. The treatment effect on the dyeing efficiency of luteoline colorant that was extracted from weld (Reseda luteola) was also evaluated. The structural properties of antifelted and non-antifelted fibers were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. An optimal enzymatic process for antifelting and shrink proofing was achieved at 40 °C for 3 h in alkaline medium at pH 10. The treatment increased the dye absorbance and fixation of luteoline colorant on the wool yarn and fabric. It also improved the fastness proprieties, particularly when a mixed mordant of natural alum and tannin from Acacia meransii were used.