Application of laccases with cellulases on denim for clean effluent and repeatable biowashing

In this study, we try to use laccases with cellulases to investigate their effects on the garments and possible reusing of biowashing effluent to save water, enzyme, and energy. To achieve these goals, denim garments treated with different percentages of laccases and cellulases and the remaining baths (effluent) used three times with three different methods. Color indices of fabric samples were measured by colorimeter on the front and back of garment and on the white pocket. The effluents in the remaining baths were also monitored by spectrophotometer after each processing. The XRD spectrums were used to calculate the crystalline degrees of the chosen samples. The fiber surfaces of some treated samples were observed by SEM. The results revealed that using optimum concentration of laccases and cellulases produces the same biowashing effect on the garment after three-repeated biowashing. By using this method, laccases helps to discolor the effluent and enzyme residuals of both cellulases and laccases are useful for repeated processing. Overall, this method is recommending a biowashing process with considerable reduce in consumption of laccases, cellulases, water, time, and energy. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008