Advances in Textile Biotechnology

Book excerpt: Biotechnology has impacted the textiles industry through the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes, as well as enabling the design of improved textile materials. This book will provide a thorough overview of current and future focuses of biotechnology in the fibre and textile industry. Part one of the book opens with a review of technologies involved in textile biotechnology. Chapters explore the design and engineering of novel enzymes for textile applications and developments in processes and equipment for enzymatic textile treatments. Part two investigates the modification of particular fibres through the use of biotechnology. Key topics include the treatment of wool and silk fibres and the enzymatic treatment versus conventional processing of cotton.With expert contributions from leaders in their fields, Advances in textile biotechnology is a comprehensive guide for those in the textile and fibre industry, as well as experts in the biology, chemical and environmental engineering industries. - Provides a thorough overview of current and future focuses of biotechnology in the fibre and textile industry - Explores production of enzymes, searching for efficient production systems and also documents the advantages and limitations associated with the process - Reviews the debate surrounding enzymatic treatment versus conventional processing of cotton along with engineering of plants for improved fibre qualities