The effects on fabric caused by cellulase enzymes always result from a proc
ess in which strong mechanical action affecting the fabric is provided. Thi
s paper discusses the interaction between cellulase activities and mechanic
al agitation during textile processes. Possible mechanisms are suggested fo
r depilling and ageing effects accounting for the presence of mechanical fa
ctors. The paper includes a review of the mechanisms of indigo backstaining
during cellulase washing. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserv
ed.