Novozymes’ new technology offers cold bleaching for denim
Danish enzyme specialist Novozymes has created a new process that speeds up the denim bleaching process, uses cold water and reduces the use of the chemicals, it says.
“Our cold bleaching solution is effective at tap water temperature,” says Ole Bill Jørgensen, business development manager for Novozymes' textile division.
Enzymatic bleaching solutions are usually based on enzymes known as laccases. They alter the indigo through oxidation. However, the new solution is based on peroxidases, and is formulated to work without extra oxygen from either the air or water and 90% of the reaction finishes within 10 minutes.
Fabrics are often coloured using both indigo and sulphur dyes. The cold bleaching solution does not bleach black or brown sulphur dyes, and only slightly alters the tone of blue sulphur dye. This means that different colour tones can be achieved with the same fabric using different dye combinations, which Novozymes says could be an advantage.
“Denim processors can apply this technology to current trends and create diverse looks for brand owners very quickly," adds Mr Jørgensen. "Even just one wash cycle using this technology can create a variety of different colour tones. We believe the full fashion potential will be further explored when the technology becomes broadly available to the industry.”
