BIOPOLISHING TREATMENT OF CELLULOSIC FABRICS FOR HOTEL UNIFORMS INSPIRED FROM EGYPTIAN NUBA

Abstract

Environmental friendly treatment of textiles has become a preferred choice over chemical treatment because of it being less harmful to textiles as well as environment. Biopolishing treatments of cellulose-containing textile fabrics with cellulase enzyme are utilized for removing protruding fibers in order to achieve a smooth and polished surface. In this study, natural cellulosic fabrics (linen, gabardine and poplin fabrics) were biopolished using cellulase enzyme to improve their surface properties and quality (fuzzing and pilling). Physico-mechanical properties were measured and determined. Additionally, dyeing of finished fabrics was carried out using different classes of reactive dyes. Design and production of functional uniforms (coats, aprons, bows, trousers, etc.) were performed using the natural fabrics that available in Egyptian markets. That achieving the elements and requirements of hotel uniforms were inspired from the elements of Nubian art and folklore; such as design motifs, dye colors, printing, and fabrics types.