In the denim washing process, enzyme washing, snowflake effect creation, and enzyme treatment are closely related concepts that jointly shape the unique appearance and texture of denim.
Basic Concepts
It is a fabric washing method that utilizes the catalytic properties of enzymes. In denim washing, cellulase is commonly used. It can specifically act on the cellulose fibers of denim fabric, prompting physical or chemical changes in the fibers, such as decomposition and degradation, thereby altering the appearance and hand feel of the fabric.
Enzyme Treatment (Enzyme Wash in a Narrow Sense):
Essentially, it is a type of enzyme washing. It mainly uses cellulase to treat denim fabric. By decomposing the cellulose in the fabric, it causes partial degradation of the fibers, achieving a natural fading effect. At the same time, it makes the fabric feel softer and creates fine fluff and wear marks on the surface.
Snowflake Effect Creation:
It is a special visual effect pursued in denim washing, presenting white spots or areas resembling snowflakes. It is not an independent washing method but an effect achieved through various washing means.
Relationships
Enzyme Washing and Enzyme Treatment:
Enzyme washing is a broad concept, and enzyme treatment is its specific application in the denim washing field. The core of both is the use of the action of enzymes.
Enzyme Treatment and Snowflake Effect Creation:
Enzyme treatment lays the foundation for creating the snowflake effect. After enzyme treatment, the fiber structure of the fabric becomes loose and fragile. When subsequent treatments such as using potassium permanganate and pumice stones are carried out, it is easier to produce uniform and natural snowflake effects. For example, if enzyme treatment is carried out first, and then the fabric is rubbed with pumice stones soaked in potassium permanganate solution, beautiful snowflake - like white dots can appear on the fabric surface.
Enzyme Washing, Enzyme Treatment, and Snowflake Effect Creation:
Enzyme washing and enzyme treatment provide the preconditions for creating the snowflake effect. By controlling the degree of enzyme washing or enzyme treatment, as well as the methods and intensities of subsequent treatments, different styles of snowflake patterns can be achieved.
Comparison Items |
SILIT - ENZ - 803 |
SILIT - ENZ - 880 |
Product Positioning | A fast - flowering enzyme preparation for denim fermentation and washing | A super anti - back - staining and color - retaining enzyme for denim washing and abrasion treatment |
Core Advantages | Fast flowering speed (three times that of Novozymes A966), high blue - white contrast, good smoothness, minimal strength damage | Excellent color retention, strong anti - back - staining ability, high blue - white contrast, rough abrasion effect |
Appearance | Grey granular | Off - white particle |
pH Value (1% Aqueous Solution) | 6.0 - 7.0 | 7.0±0.5 |
Ionicity | Nonionic | Nonionic |
Solubility | Dissolves in water | Dissolves in water |
Dosage | 0.1 - 0.3g/L | 0.05 - 0.3g/L |
Bath Ratio | 1:5 - 1:15 | 1:5 - 1:15 |
Operating Temperature | 20 - 55℃, with an optimal temperature of 45℃ | 20 - 50℃, with an optimal temperature of 40℃ |
Operating pH Value | 5.0 - 8.0, with an optimal range of 6.0 - 7.0 | 5.0 - 8.0, with an optimal range of 6.0 - 7.0 |
Processing Time | 10 - 60min | 10 - 60min |
Inactivation Conditions | 1 - 2g/L of soda ash (pH>10), treated at 70℃ or above for more than 10 minutes | 1 - 2g/L of sodium carbonate (pH>10), at >70℃ for >10 minutes |
Packaging | Packed in 25kg kraft paper bags | Packed in 40kg drums |
Storage Conditions | Store in a cool and dry place below 25℃, avoid direct sunlight, with a sealed shelf - life of 12 months | Store in a cool and dry place below 25℃, avoid direct sunlight, with a sealed shelf - life of 12 months. Re - seal after opening to prevent a decrease in enzyme activity |
Our SILIT-ENZ880, granular enzyme, is specifically designed for color retention, with a floral effect and excellent anti staining effect.
Our SILIT-ENZ-803, granular enzyme, quickly produces snowflakes and has a slight anti staining effect.
A customer feedback rendering is as follows:


If you have any questions about denim washing, granular enzymes, or textile chemicals, you are also welcome to have more communication with us.
Our main products: Amino silicone, block silicone, hydrophilic silicone,all of their silicone emulsion,wetting rubbing fastness improver, water repellent(Fluorine free,Carbon 6,Carbon 8), demin washing chemicals(ABS, Enzyme, Spandex protector, Manganese remover), Main export countries: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Türkiye, Indonesia, Uzbekistan, etc.,more detail please contact : Mandy +86 19856618619 (Whatsapp )
Post time: Mar-12-2025