Effects of Liposome-Assisted Peroxide Bleaching on Woolen Fabric Properties

The effect of liposomes, constituted from soy lecithin and cholesterol, on hydrogen peroxide bleaching of wool fabrics was investigated. A thin lipid layer method was used for liposome production. Use of commercial liposomes was also investigated. Whiteness index (Stensby), breaking strength, solubility in alkali, and several instrumental analysis methods for determining morphology were carried out. Bleached samples were dyed with a 1:2 metal complex dye and color strength values were analyzed. The effect of liposome type on hydrogen peroxide consumption in the bleaching bath was also analyzed using UV-Vis spectroscopy. Elemental analysis was carried out to determine the ratio of elements in the bleached wool samples. Liposomes acted as a stabilizer in the bleaching bath and improved the physical, bleaching, and dyeing properties of wool.