Enzyme-mediated coupling of a bi-functional phenolic compound onto wool to enhance its physical, mechanical and functional properties

Wool fibres have been modified with nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) to improve their performance at use. This water insoluble bi-functional phenolic compound has been grafted on wool through a laccase enzyme catalyzed reaction in an aqueous–ethanol mixture. The capacity of laccase to oxidise NDGA in this aqueous–organic medium has been studied electrochemically. The increase of CH2, CH3 and aromatic groups signal in the DRIFT spectra, together with SEM images of the enzymatically modified fabrics confirmed the covalent grafting of NDGA on wool. This one step enzymatic process for grafting of NDGA improved the physical and mechanical properties of wool fabrics such as shrink resistance, crease recovery and tensile strength. Furthermore, the NDGA imparted to the textile material strong antioxidant activity and UV protection.