Bio technology

• one of the main environmental concerns related to dyeing and finishing is the use of chemicals in these processes
• specific problems relate to;
  - colour and pesticides in waste water
  - chemicals from finishing processes
  - toxic heavy metal compounds used in dyeing
• new biological production processes that are less polluted are being developed; for instance, a new biological scouring and bleaching of fabric has recently been introduced

BIOSTONING;

• as recently as 1989, it was found that cellulose enzymes could replace the pumice stones which are used to produce stone-washed denim
• the pumice stones damage clothes, particularly hems and waistbands as well as the machinery
• most manufacturers now use enzyme treatment
• this is suitable because the indigo dye hardly penetrates the surface of fibres
• biostoning provides a number of benefits;
  - less damage to fabric and machinery
  - more…