Biomodification of Secondary Cellulose to Restore Texture and Functional Properties

ABSTRACT Biomodification of secondary cellulose, recovered from textile waste, was performed using the enzyme cellulase. Biomodification (biopolishing) leads to a significant improvement in the texture of the material by removing fibers, pellets, and impurities from the surface. The most effective biopolishing of regenerated secondary cellulose fabric is achieved within 1.5–2 h at a cellulase concentration of 1.5–2 g/L and a temperature of 50°C–60°C. As a result of enzymatic modification, the strength of the cellulose increases by 12%–15%, abrasion resistance improves by 4%–30%, and air permeability increases by 5%–8%. The fibers acquire a more rounded shape and exhibit reduced crimping. Simultaneous enhancement of the porosity and microstructure, increase in the internal volume of the fibers contributes to better dye sorption and fixation, as well as a more uniform distribution of the dye solution within the cellulose fiber. The degree of crystallinity of cellulose, calculated through X‐ray phase analysis, is 54.7% for the untreated fabric. After biopolishing, this value decreases to 52.6%, but after dyeing, it increases to 64.1%. Enzymatically modified dyed cellulose fibers exhibit very high resistance to light, dry and wet friction, sweat, and soap treatments.