Microfiber release from textiles during domestic laundering is a significant contributor to microplastic pollution. This study presents a liquid detergent formulation designed for cold-wash conditions to investigate the potential of reducing microfiber release from polyester-based textiles through controlled fiber–surface interactions.
The formulation is based on alkyl polyglucoside (APG) surfactants, selected for their mild interaction with textile fibers and suitability for low-temperature washing. A conventional enzyme system is included to ensure effective stain removal, while a polyesterase enzyme is introduced as a functional component targeting polyester fiber surfaces. In this context, the polyesterase is not intended for soil removal but for inducing controlled surface modification of polyester fibers.
This effect is supported by a water-soluble polymer system designed to interact with polyester surfaces and regulate fiber–fiber interactions. By reducing frictional forces and mechanical stress during washing, the combined enzyme–polymer system aims to limit the detachment of weak fiber fragments, thereby reducing microfiber release into the wash liquor.
The approach integrates three synergistic mechanisms: (i) gentle cleaning via APG-based surfactants, (ii) enzyme-driven surface modification, and (iii) polymer-assisted regulation of fiber interactions. Performance is evaluated using standardized polyester and blended fabrics under controlled washing conditions.
Microfiber release is quantified by filtration of wash effluents followed by gravimetric analysis. Cleaning performance is assessed using standard stain tests and spectrophotometric ΔL measurements.
The results indicate that the formulation has the potential to reduce microfiber release while maintaining cleaning performance. This work highlights a shift from passive cleaning toward active fiber interaction control, offering a formulation-based strategy to mitigate microfiber release at the source.