4.3 - Uses of Enzymes
Enzymes in biological washing powders
- Enzymes can be put to work outside living things to do useful jobs in industry and in the home.
- Each enzyme breaks down one particular substance, and works quickly without needing high temperatures - so enzymes do jobs that would otherwise be slow, costly, or need harsh conditions.
- Biological washing powders contain enzymes that break down the substances making up stains, turning large, insoluble stain molecules into small, soluble ones that can be rinsed away.
The enzymes and the stains they digest
- Proteases - Break down protein-based stains, such as blood, sweat, and food
- Lipases - Break down fat-based and grease stains
- Amylases - Break down carbohydrate- and starch-based stains
Why they work at low temperatures
- Because the cleaning is done by enzymes, biological washing powders work effectively at low temperatures, around 30°C, rather than needing a hot wash.
- Washing at a lower temperature uses less energy, so it is cheaper and gentler on fabrics, while the enzymes still digest the stains.