Simultaneous dyeing and enzyme processing of fabrics in a non-ionic surfactant reverse micellar system

Simultaneous dyeing and enzyme processing of wool fabrics in a non-ionic surfactant reverse micellar system has been investigated using Polyoxyethylene Sorbitan Trioleate (Tween-85) as a surfactant. Solubilization of enzymes in the Tween-85 reverse micellar system was evaluated by small angle X-ray scattering method. Small angle X-ray scattering analyses showed that the Tween-85 reverse micellar system had an ability to incorporate enzymes and dyes in the interior of reverse micelles without changing their structure. The acid dye and the reactive dye solubilized in the Tween-85 reverse micellar system were effectively adsorbed on wool fabrics. Activities of enzymes in the same system were different depending on the used enzyme and took negative effects from dyes in the system. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.