Surface modification and performance of wool fibers after combined plasma and enzyme treatments

Abstract

This study explores the impact of various surface modification treatments on wool fibers, emphasizing their morphological, chemical, color, and mechanical properties. The treatments included plasma, enzymes (glutaminase and protease), and their combinations. Morphological analysis demonstrated that enzyme and plasma treatments resulted in considerable scale removal and increased surface roughness, with combined treatments causing the most pronounced structural changes. FTIR analysis revealed distinct changes in the chemical structure of the wool fibers, indicating significant surface modifications and crosslinking effects. Colorimetric analysis showed that lightness and whiteness generally increased with enzyme and plasma-enzyme treatments, whereas the application of mordants significantly enhanced color strength. Color fastness tests indicated that plasma-glutaminase treated samples with mordant exhibited superior washing fastness and staining resistance. The mechanical properties analysis revealed that plasma treatment improved fiber strength, whereas glutaminase treatment enhanced flexibility; combined treatments effectively balanced strength and flexibility. Overall, the synergistic effects of combined plasma and enzyme treatments, especially with glutaminase, led to improved surface modification, color properties, and mechanical performance of wool fibers, providing valuable insights for optimizing wool fiber treatments in textile applications.