Enzymatic treated viscose fibers functionalized by chitosan

Our research focused on the sorption properties of enzymatically treated viscose/chitosan and viscose fibers treated with enzymes and chitosan. To improve sorption properties of viscose fibers and to obtain the characteristics similar to viscose/chitosan fibers, we performed two different treatments. First, we treated both fibers with enzyme cellulase for 60 min and afterwards treated viscose fibers with the chitosan in an ultrasonic bath. In our research, structural characteristics and the accessibility of free adsorption places were investigated. We noted a noticeable change in the structure (degree of polymerization, crystallinity, and molecular orientation) of treated viscose and viscose/chitosan fibers. Changes that occurred in the morphology and in the structural properties of both types of tested fibers were also reflected in their physical and chemical properties. Research showed that the sorption properties of enzymatic treated fibers were improved. Application: This study provides structure and sorption properties of viscose/chitosan fibers and viscose fibers treated with chitosan and analyzes the improvement of sorption properties of fibers, based on enzymatic treatment. Such treated fibers could be used in paper, packaging, hygiene towels, pads, and other applications.