Professor Jinsong Shen

Job: Professor of Textile Chemistry and Biotechnology

Faculty: Arts, Design and Humanities

School/department: School of Design

Research group(s): Textile Engineering and Materials (TEAM) Research Group

Address: De Montfort University, The Gateway, Leicester, UK, LE1 9BH

T: +44 (0)116 257 7558

E: jshen@dmu.ac.uk

W: www.dmu.ac.uk/team

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Personal profile

Jinsong (Jim) Shen is Professor of Textile Chemistry and Biotechnology at the School of Design, and Head of Textile Engineering And Materials (TEAM) Research Group, De Montfort University. He holds BSc and MSc degrees in textile chemistry from Donghua University and a PhD in protein chemistry from the University of Leeds. While at the University of Leeds, Jinsong conducted the fundamental research to understand the protein structure of wool fibre. Since joining TEAM research group in 1994, Prof. Shen has extensively involved in the research of protein materials, development of biotechnology for the textile wet processes and textile effluent treatments, and functional finishing to enhance fibre properties and fabric performance. His current interests lie in the areas of textile biotechnology, sol-gel technology, nanotechnology and flame retardant technology, and their applications leading to the development of protective garments and multifunctional materials.

Prof. Shen has been involved in a number of international and national research projects including UK TSB LPTSM, UK AHRC LEBIOTEX, UK DEFRA WOOLCAT, EU COST ACTION 847, EU FP5 BIOEFFTEX and PROTEX, EU FP6 ENZUP and EU FP7 SAFEPROTEX projects. Prof. Shen has coordinated two large EU collaborative projects in the research of bio-engineering to produce enzymes with specific activities which offer exciting opportunities for development of functional materials.

Research group affiliations

Textile Engineering and Materials (TEAM) Research Group

Emerging Technologies Research Centre (EMTERC)

Publications and outputs

Development of sustainable cotton fabrics with natural immortelle essential oil for antimicrobial and mosquito repellent functions
Development of sustainable cotton fabrics with natural immortelle essential oil for antimicrobial and mosquito repellent functions Laird, Katie; Shen, Jinsong; Marija Grancaric, A.; Botteri, L. Vector-borne infectious diseases, such as malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever and plague, are prevalent in subtropical regions. The malaria parasite can be spread via the bites of infected mosquitos. All travellers from non-malarial countries are highly vulnerable to the disease due to a lack of inherent immunity. There is an increasing demand for sustainable textile materials with functional properties, such as insect-repellence and antimicrobial protection. The current research work is to explore the possibility of using natural antimicrobials to achieve cotton fabrics with antimicrobial and mosquito-repellent functions through an eco-friendly processing against Escherichia coli & Staphylococcus aureus and Aedes aegypti respectively. A coacervation phase separation technique was used whereby immortelle essential oil (EO) (30%) was emulsified with 1% w/v chitosan and 0.025% w/v sodium alginate to form novel green microcapsules. The microcapsules were padded onto the scoured and bleached woven cotton fabric using Mercedes-Benz Pad-dry laboratory device. The antimicrobial activity was assessed using the adapted qualitative BS EN ISO 20645:2004 and quantitative BS EN ISO 20743:2013 test standards. Mosquito-repellency of the treated cotton fabrics against Aedes aegypti mosquito species were tested by using Y-tube Olfactometer according to WHO guidelines (Guidelines for efficacy testing of spatial repellents). The cotton coated with immortelle EO microcapsules showed no antimicrobial against the gram-negative E.coli, but was effective against the gram-positive skin microorganism S. aureus. Zones of inhibition of 2 cm were observed and the treated cotton reduced S. aureus growth by 86% compared to the control where only 40% reduction in growth was observed. 57% repellent rate against Aedes aegypti mosquitos was observed when the EO was added directly to the cotton textile, once microencapsulated the repellent rate increased to 100%. Further studies are being undertaken to optimise the concentration of immortelle essential oil to be used and to improve the efficiency of microencapsulation of immortelle essential oil for the control release of bioactive oils to achieve the long lasting efficacy of mosquito-repellency.
A spotlight on: textile-led sustainable innovation of surface coloration and patterning for sportswear
A spotlight on: textile-led sustainable innovation of surface coloration and patterning for sportswear Morgan, Laura; Kane, Faith; Tyrer, John; Shen, Jinsong
Laser Shibori: A Digital Moulding Technique Supporting Circular Textile Design in Three Dimensions
Laser Shibori: A Digital Moulding Technique Supporting Circular Textile Design in Three Dimensions Morgan, Laura; Kane, Faith; Tyrer, John; Shen, Jinsong This paper considers the potential for digital laser technology to facilitate sustainable innovation in the field of textile design and manufacture, enabling transition towards a circular economy. Using recent design research as a case study, it discusses a newly developed Laser Shibori technique and its significance in relation to circularity. Laser Shibori describes a digital moulding technique for three-dimensional surface design and sustainable textile finishing that can be used to design accurate surface architectures for synthetic textiles. Using the photothermal energy of a CO2 laser, the method combines two heat dependent processes: heat setting and textile colouration, resulting in an effect akin to shibori. Unlike the traditional craft practice, Laser Shibori offers precise digital control, repeatability and a unique aesthetic. The study demonstrated the benefit of interdisciplinary research, synthesising design and science to support sustainable material innovation. The synthesis of material science and creative design practice proved essential in developing the laser technique and created a platform for material innovation beyond creativity as discussed through potential functional application ideas and sustainability benefits. The methods described in this paper provide a system to control three-dimensional effects through controlled tension and targeted laser irradiation. The use of laser technology to create three-dimensional textile forms presents processing advantages over traditional methods: the laser does not require physical moulds or complicated set up and offers ease of pattern change through digital generation of designs. The laser process negates requirement for additional materials, offering reversible surface design effects to facilitate ease of recovery at end of primary use, thus complimenting a circular textile lifecycle in three dimensions: through efficiency, agility and recovery. The file attached to this record is the author's final peer reviewed version. The Publisher's final version can be found by following the DOI link.
Selective enzymatic modification of wool/polyester blended fabrics for surface patterning
Selective enzymatic modification of wool/polyester blended fabrics for surface patterning Prajapati, Chetna; Smith, Edward; Kane, Faith; Shen, Jinsong An enzyme-based process was investigated to achieve surface patterning of fabrics as an alternative to conventional chemical processes. In the current study, the enzyme protease was employed to selectively modify a wool/polyester blended fabric to impart decorative surface effects. Controlled protease processing of the blended fabric dyed with Lanasol Blue CE enabled the degradation and removal of the dyed wool fibre component from the fabric blend, resulting in novel fading and differential fabric relief due to degradation of wool, revealing the undyed polyester component after enzyme treatment. A 38.5% weight loss was achieved, therefore 85.6% of the wool in the 45/55% wool/polyester blended fabric was removed from the structure. The activity of protease is highly specific, therefore, it caused no damage to the polyester component. The control studies led to the development of surface pattern designs using the enzyme process, achieving effects similar to current processes such as devor e and discharge printing. This novel enzyme process permits the replacement of harsh chemicals used in current surface patterning processes with small doses of biodegradable enzymes. The file attached to this record is the author's final peer reviewed version. The Publisher's final version can be found by following the DOI link.
Natural Products for Use in Antimicrobial Microcapsules for Textiles: Novel and Green
Natural Products for Use in Antimicrobial Microcapsules for Textiles: Novel and Green Shen, Jinsong; Laird, Katie; Soroh, A. Axillary odour, athlete’s foot, eczema and infected wounds, are all conditions that are caused by organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Trichophyton rubrum, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antimicrobial textiles may go some way in combating such diseases. Essential oils (EOs) via a novel microencapsulation process were explored for there antimicrobial activity on textiles. Ten EOs were screened by the disc diffusion method against S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. coli, S. epidermidis and T. rubrum. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs), Minimum Bactericidal Concentrations (MBCs) and Fractional Inhibitory Concentrations (FICs) of Litsea, Lemon and Rosemary EOs were determined using the microdilution method. Litsea oil was most effective, with an average zone of inhibition (ZoI) of 47 mm, 20 mm, 53 mm, 43 mm and 90mm against S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. coli, S. epidermidis and T. rubrum respectively. Lemon and Rosemary were the only other EOs effective against P. aeruginosa (ZoI 21 and 24 mm respectively), as well as inhibiting all other microorganisms. Litsea EO gave the greatest inhibition against all microorganisms, with the lowest MIC and MBC observed against S. epidermidis (0.60 and 1.30 mg/ml respectively). Synergistic interactions between the three EOs were observed for E. coli only (FIC index = 0.50); all other interactions were additive. The nanoemulsion encapsulation process of the EOs involved using a self-assembly technique in which the polymer molecules of chitosan (positively charged) and sodium alginate (negatively charged) spontaneously assemble in the presence of the calcium chloride. The microcapsules were then padded onto 100% knitted cotton and polyester and antimicrobial activity assessed at one and seven days after treatment. The coated textiles were inhibitory to all microorganisms with the textiles efficacy increasing over time, T rubrum was the most susceptible microorganism with no growth observed. EOs are promising natural antimicrobials which can inhibit the growth of Gram-positive & Gram-negative bacteria and dermatophytes; the EO can inhibit bacteria individually and synergistically and are therefore good microencapsulation core material candidates for use in functional antimicrobial textiles which are eco-friendly and could be used to alleviate skin conditions and malodour. The potential of the microencapsulated EO will be explored for anti-mosquito functions.
Disulfide bond reconstruction: A novel approach for grafting of thiolated chitosan onto wool
Disulfide bond reconstruction: A novel approach for grafting of thiolated chitosan onto wool Zhang, Pan; Zhang, Nan; Wang, Qiang; Wang, Ping; Yuan, Jiugang; Shen, Jinsong Chitosan, a natural biopolymer, is used as a multifunctional agent for modification of wool either through chemical crosslinking or physical coating. For the first time, wool fabric has been modified with chitosan through disulfide bond breaking and reforming reactions. The chitosan was thiolated and then grafted onto the reduced wool fibers through disulfide bonds. In order to understand the mechanism of the grafting of thiolated chitosan onto wool, glutathione was used as a model compound for wool in the research. The structures of thiolated chitosan reacted with glutathione and wool fabrics grafted with thiolated chitosan were investigated by FTIR, 13CNMR, XPS, XRD, SEM. The dyeability, shrink-resistance and biocompatibility were also tested. The results suggested that glutathione reacted with thiolated chitosan and formed disulfide bond. The thiolated chitosan-grafted wool fabric had good shrink-resistance and dyeability. Hydrophilicity and antibacterial properties were also improved compared with untreated wool fabric. The results provide a novel approach for modification of wool through fiber-intrinsic groups like disulfide bonds. The file attached to this record is the author's final peer reviewed version. The Publisher's final version can be found by following the DOI link.
From Responsive Design to Sustainable Systems: Digital Laser Processing across the Textile Production Cycle
From Responsive Design to Sustainable Systems: Digital Laser Processing across the Textile Production Cycle Morgan, Laura; Shen, Jinsong; Matthews, Janette; Tyrer, John
Enzyme-based biotechnology for textile coloration and surface pattern
Enzyme-based biotechnology for textile coloration and surface pattern Shen, Jinsong; Prajapati, Chetna; Smith, Edward; Kane, Faith Coloration is an important process in textile finishing, which is commonly used to enhance the appearance and attractiveness of a fabric. Conventional textile coloration methods and techniques employed to create surface patterning through dyeing and printing systems are known to have a negative impact on the environment due to their resource intensive production processes. The adoption of an alternative approach using enzymes (bio-catalysts) could potentially offer processes with improved environmental sustainability by eliminating the inherent drawbacks associated with chemical processes. Enzymes, laccase and protease were used in this study as innovative biotechnology-based textile design tools. Two enzymatic based processes were investigated to achieve textile coloration and or decorative surface patterning of fabric as an alternative to conventional chemical processes. The study demonstrates the ability of laccase, through controlled application, to produce innovative coloration of wool and polyamide textile materials, and the enzyme protease to selectively modify wool blended fabrics to impart innovative decorative surface effects through fibre modification and degradation. Both processes offer important advantages over conventional processing methods, which use simpler and milder operating conditions that eliminate additional chemical use and reduce energy consumption.
Laccase-catalysed coloration of wool and nylon
Laccase-catalysed coloration of wool and nylon Prajapati, Chetna; Smith, Edward; Kane, Faith; Shen, Jinsong The potential for laccase (EC 1.10.3.2) to be used within the area of textile coloration, specifically for the generation of decorative surface pattern design, remains relatively unexplored. The current study presents a novel process for the coloration of wool and nylon 6,6 fibres via laccase oxidation of aromatic compounds as an alternative to conventional dyeing methods. Emphasis was placed on producing a diverse colour palette, which was achieved through the investigation of three different aromatic compounds as laccase substrates: 1,4-dihydroxybenzene, 2,7-dihydroxynapthalene and 2,5-diaminobenzenesulphonic acid. Reaction processing parameters such as buffer systems and pH values, laccase and aromatic compound concentrations, and reaction times were investigated, all in the absence of additional chemical auxiliaries. Enzymatically dyed fabrics were tested against commercial standards, resulting in reasonably good colour fastness to wash. To demonstrate the coloration and design potential by laccase catalysation of aromatic compounds, specially constructed fabrics using a combination of undyed wool, nylon and polyester yarns were dyed using the one-step laccase-catalysed coloration process. The use of different fibre types and weave structures enabled simple colour variations to be produced. Shadow, reserve and contrasting effects were achieved with the laccase-catalysed dyeing process developed. Important advantages over conventional processing methods include the use of simpler and milder processing conditions that eliminate additional chemical use and reduce energy consumption. open access article
Enzyme-based Biotechnology for Textile Coloration and Surface Patterning
Enzyme-based Biotechnology for Textile Coloration and Surface Patterning Shen, Jinsong; Prajapati, Chetna; Smith, Edward; Kane, Faith Textile wet processing, including preparation, coloration and finishing, significantly improves the performance of textile materials and apparel. However, conventional textile processes consume large quantities of water, energy and chemicals. As there is an increasing demand for sustainable textile materials and apparel, a major challenge ahead for textile manufacturing is to improve textile wet processing by replacing harmful chemicals and reducing the consumption of water and energy. Extensive research efforts have been made to develop enzymatic bioprocesses as alternatives to replace conventional textile processing methods. Laccases (oxidoreductase, EC 1.10.3.2) have become important enzymes for their application in textile processing due to their great versatility and capability of catalysing the oxidation of a broad substrate spectrum. Laccase is capable of catalysing the polymerisation of simple aromatic compounds to create polymeric colorants useful for textile fibre coloration. The use of laccase offers an attractive alternative method of coloration, with potential economic and environmental benefits. The current study demonstrates the ability of laccase, through controlled application, to produce innovative coloration of wool and nylon textile materials. A range of colours can be achieved through the alteration of processing conditions of the in-situ enzymatic coloration process used. The use of different fibre types and weave structures enabled simple colour variations to be produced with unique shadow, reserve and contrasting effects.

Click here for a full listing of Jinsong Shen's publications and outputs.

Key research outputs

Prajapati C, Smith E, Kane F, Shen J (2018), Laccase-catalysed coloration of wool and nylon, submitted to Coloration Technology, published online.

Bai R, Yu Y, Wang Q, Fan X, Wang P, Yuan J, Shen J (2018), Laccase-catalyzed poly(ethylene glycol)-templated ‘zip’ polymerization of caffeic acid for functionalization of wool fabrics, the Journal of Cleaner Production, 191, 48-56.

Iakovlev D 1, Hu S, Hassan H, Dwyer V, Ashayer-Soltani R, Hunt C and Shen J (2018), Smart Garment Fabrics to Enable Non-Contact Opto-Physiological Monitoring, Biosensors, 8(2), 33.

Yuan M, Wang Q, Shen J, Smith E, Bai R, Fan X (2018) Enzymatic coloration and finishing of wool with laccase and polyethylenimine, Textile Research Journal, 88(16), 1834-1846.

Prajapati C, Smith E, Kane F, Shen J (2017), Enzyme Catalysed Coloration and Surface Patterning, International Dyer, 202(3), 59-61.

Zhang T, Bai R, Shen J, Wang Q, Wang P, Yuan J, Fan X (2017) Laccase-catalyzed polymerization of diaminobenzenesulfonic acid for pH-responsive colour-changing and conductive wool fabrics, Textile Research Journal, online available now

Riley K, Williams J, Owen L, Davis A, Shen J and Laird K (2017) The Effect of Low Temperature Laundering and Detergents on the Survival of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus on Textiles Used in Healthcare Uniforms. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 123(1), 280-286.

Riley K, Fergusson M, and Shen J (2017), Sustainable Fabric Choice for Regularly Laundered Healthcare Uniforms, The Journal of the Textile Institute, 108(3), 440-444.

Bai R, Yu Y, Wang Q, Yuan J, Fan X and Shen J (2016), Laccase-catalyzed in-situ dyeing of wool fabric, The Journal of the Textile Institute, 107(8),995-1003.

Shen J and Smith E (2015), 'Enzymatic treatments for sustainable textile processing' in the book, Sustainable apparel: production, processing and recycling (Edited by R Blackburn), Woodhead Publishing Ltd, England. (ISBN-10:1782423397), pp 119-134.

Pei E, Shen J and Watling J (2015), Direct 3D printing of polymers onto textiles: experimental studies and applications, Rapid Prototyping Journal, 21(5), 556-571.

Price S L, Huddersman K D, Shen J, Walsh S E (2013), Mycobactericidal activity of hydrogen peroxide activated by a novel heterogeneous fentons-like catalyst system, Letters in Applied Microbiology. 56(2), 83-87.

Smith E and Shen J (2012), Enzymatic treatment of wool pre-treated with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide to achieve machine washability, Biocatalysis and Biotransformation, 30(1), 38-47.

Smith E and Shen J. (2012) Surface treatment of wool to achieve hydrophilic fibre and the effect on subsequent dyeing and protease treatment, Advanced Materials Research, 441, 249-254.

Smith E, Zhang Q, Farrand B, Kokol V and Shen J (2012) The development of a bio-scouring process for raw wool using protease, Advanced Materials Research, 441, 10-15.

Smith E and Shen J (2011), Surface modification of wool with protease extracted polypeptides, Journal of Biotechnology, 156, 134-140.

Smith E, Farrand B and Shen J (2010), The removal of lipid from the surface of wool to promote the subsequent enzymatic process with modified protease for wool shrink-resistance, Biocatalysis and Biotransformation, 28 (5-6), 329-338.

Smith E, Schroeder M, Güebitz G and Shen J (2010), Covalent bonding of protease to different sized enteric polymers and their potential use in wool processing, Enzyme and Microbial Technology, 47, 105-111.

Shen J (2010), ‘Enzymatic treatment of protein fibres’ in the book: Advances in Textile Biotechnology (Edited by V Nierstrasz and A Cavaco-Paulo), Woodhead Publishing Ltd. England, 171-192, (ISBN 1 84569 625 5).

Lenting H B M, Broekman H, Guebitz G M, Kokol V and Shen J (2009), Industrial production of enzyme-modified wool fibres for machine-washable bed coverings, Biotechnology Journal, 4(10), 1441-1449.

Shen J (2009), Wool finishing and the development of novel finishes in the book, Advances in wool technology (Edited by N A G Johnson and I Russell), Woodhead Publishing Ltd, England. (ISBN 1 84569 332 9), pp 147-182.

Smith E, Zhang Q, Shen J, Schroeder M and Silva C (2008), Modification of Esperase by covalent bonding to Eudragit polymers L 100 and S 100 for wool fibre surface treatment. Biocatalysis and Biotransformation, 26(5), pp 391-398.

Tsobkallo ES, Kvaratskheliya V A, Shen J and Wyatt J (2008), The influence of temperature on residual deformation of Phenylon and Nomex yarns following the creep-recovery process. J Text Inst, 99(5), pp 451-457.

Research interests/expertise

Bio-engineering in textile processing
Textile materials and their performance
Textile dyeing, printing and finishing
Flame retardant finishing
Natural fibres (cotton, wool, silk, flax, hemp and nettle, etc)
Enzyme-based textile Biotechnology
Textiles effluent treatments
Protein fibres and multifunctional protein materials
Nano-layer surface coating
Sol-gel technology
Natural fibre reinforce composites

Areas of teaching

Textile preparation, coloration and finishing
Textile performance and testing
Advanced textile technology
Textile Biotechnology

Qualifications

MSc and BSc in textile chemistry (Donghua University)
PhD in protein chemistry (University of Leeds)

Courses taught

Textile Finishes and Product Performance
Project supervision at both undergraduate level and MPhil / PhD.
Textile Dyeing, Printing and Finishing

Honours and awards

Visiting Professor. Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, China, 4/2013 - 3/2015.

Visiting Professor, Jiangnan University, China, 2007-2010.

Membership of external committees

Scientific committee member of the 8th, 9th and 10th International Conference on Polymer and Fiber Biotechnology, Portugal 25-27 May 2014, Japan 7-9 September 2016 and Brazil 24-27 April 2017.
Scientific committee member of the 13th International Wool Research Conference (IWRC-13) and AATCC Sustainability Symposium (AATCC-SS), June 10-14, 2015 in Hangzhou, China.
Scientific committee and conference organizing committee member of the International Conference on Eco-Dyeing / Finishing and Green Chemistry (EDFGC2011) in Hangzhou, China, 8-12 June 2011.
Scientific committee member of 12th International Wool Research Conference, Shanghai, China, 19-22 October 2010.
Scientific committee member of 1st international conference on Sustainable Textiles (ICST08), China, 18-21 May 2008.
Consultant Committee member of National engineering Research Centre for Dyeing and finishing of textiles, Ministry of Science and Technology of China since 2002.
Chair of Chinese Textile & Apparel Society in UK, 2006-2008.

Membership of professional associations and societies

Corporate Member of the Society of Dyers and Colourists
Member of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI)
Crystal Faraday member for UK’s innovation centre for green chemical technology
Member of Chinese Textile & Apparel Society in UK

Conference attendance

Ogbechie A, Abioye A, Shen J, Laird K, Antimicrobial Activity of Litsea, Lemon and Rosemary Essential Oils and Their Combinations Against Healthcare and Sportswear Infection-Related Pathogens, ASM Microbe, 2017, New Orleans.

Prajapati C, Smith E, Kane F, Shen J, Laccase-catalysed colouration of wool and nylon fibres. The 9th International Conference on Fiber and Polymer Biotechnology, 7 - 9 September 2016, Osaka, Japan.

Shen J, Laccase-catalysed colouration and finishing of wool. The 9th International Conference on Fiber and Polymer Biotechnology, 7 - 9 September 2016, Osaka, Japan.

Prajapati C, Smith E, Kane F, Shen, J, Biotechnology for textile coloration and surface pattern. The Emperor’s New Clothes, 8th September 2016, University of Leeds, UK;

Morgan L, Kane F, Tyrer J, Shen J, Laser Moulding For Textiles: Supporting Sustainable Design and Manufacture. Circular Transitions - Mistra Future Fashion Conference on Textile Design and the Circular Economy, 23–24 November 2016, Chelsea College of Arts & Tate Britain, London.

Shen J, Chizyuka M, Prajapati C, Smith E, Surface modification of wool with proteolytic enzyme and sol-gel polymer, 13th International Wool Research Conference (IWRC-13) and AATCC Sustainability Symposium (AATCC-SS), 10-14 June 2015, Hangzhou, China

Prajapati C, Smith E, Kane F, Shen J, Laccase-catalysed coloration for textile fibres, 13th International Wool Research Conference (IWRC-13) and AATCC Sustainability Symposium (AATCC-SS), 10-14 June 2015, Hangzhou, China

Morgan L, Tyrer J, Kane F, Shen J, Laser-Dyeing for Sustainable Textile Design, 13th International Wool Research Conference (IWRC-13) and AATCC Sustainability Symposium (AATCC-SS), 10-14 June 2015, Hangzhou, China

Morgan L, Tyrer, J, Kane F, Shen J, Laser Enhanced Dyeing of Wool for Textile Design, Transition: Re-thinking Textiles and Surfaces, 26-27 Nov 2014, Huddersfield, UK

Prajapati C, Smith E, Kane F, Shen J, Enzyme processing technology to generate textile surface patterning, Transition: Re-thinking Textiles and Surfaces, 26-27 Nov 2014, Huddersfield, UK

Varheenmaa M, Martinkova L and Shen J, Evaluation of repellency and cleanability properties of the multifunctional protective textiles treated with nanosol-based finishing, 28th International Conference on Surface Modification Technologies, 16-18 June, 2014, Tampere, Finland.

Shen J, Novel finishing of protease treated wool, the 8th International Conference on polymer and fiber biotechnology, 25 - 27 May 2014, Portugal.

Prajapati C, Smith E, Kane F, Shen J, An investigation into enzyme processing technology to generate textile surface patterning, the 8th International Conference on polymer and fiber biotechnology, 25 - 27 May 2014, Portugal.

Shen J and Smith E, Novel approaches of enzymatic surface modification of wool to achieve machine washability, 12th Asian Textile Conference (ATC-12), Shanghai, China, October 23-26, 2013.

ShenJ, Smith E, Chizyuka M, Walsh S, and Martinková L, The development of sol-gel based hybrid polymers to achieve multifunctional textile fabric surface coating, the XVII International Sol-Gel conference, Madrid, Spain, 25-30 August 2013.

ShenJ, Smith E, Chizyuka M, Walsh S, and Martinková L,Sol-gel process of cotton fabric to achieve multifunctionality, 13^th AUTEX World Textile Conference, Dresden, Germany, 22^th - 24^th May 2013.

ShenJ, Smith E. Novel approaches of enzymatic processing of wool to achieve machine washability, BIT’s 4^th Symposium of Enzymes & Biocatalysis, Nanjing, China, 25-27 April 2013.

Shen J, Smith E, Chizyuka M, Walsh S, and Martinková L, Nanolayer surface coating of cotton fabric with sol-gel based hybrid polymers to achieve hydrophobic and antibacterial properties, 12th World Textile Conference AUTEX, 13 - 15 June 2012, Zadar, Croatia.

Shen J, Smith E, Chizyuka M, Walsh S, and Martinková L, Sol gel hybrid polymer coating of cotton fabrics, the International Conference on Eco-Dyeing/ Finishing and Green Chemistry, Hangzhou, China, 8-12 June 2011,

Smith E, Shen J. Surface treatment of wool to achieve hydrophilic fibre and the effect on subsequent dyeing and protease treatment, the International Conference on Eco-Dyeing/ Finishing and Green Chemistry, Hangzhou, China, 8-12 June 2011,

Smith E, Zhang Q, Farrand B, Kokol V, Shen J. The development of a bio-scouring process for raw wool using protease, the International Conference on Eco-Dyeing/ Finishing and Green Chemistry, Hangzhou, China, 8-12 June 2011,

Walsh S E, Price S L, Boateng M K, Shen J and Huddersman K, Potentiation of hydrogen peroxide activity using a novel heterogeneous catalyst, the 111th General Meeting of American Society for Microbiology, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, 21-24 May 2011.

Price S L, Shen J, Huddersman K and Walsh S E, Mycobactericidal and bactericidal properties of a novel antimicrobial catalyst and its ‘leachate’, Summer conference 2011 of society for applied microbiology, Dublin, Ireland, 4-7 July 2011.

Shen J, Smith E and Dogra N, Sol-gel hybrid polymers for surface coating of textile materials, the 7th International Conference on Polymer and Textile Biotechnology, Milan, Italy, 2-4 March 2011.

Smith E and Shen J, Treatment of wool with enzyme extracted wool polypeptide to achieve shrink-resistance, the 7th International Conference on Polymer and Textile Biotechnology, Milan, Italy, 2-4 March 2011.

Smith E and Shen J (2010), Development of Enzymatic Processing of Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide Pre-treated Wool to Achieve Machine Washability, Proceedings of the 12th International Wool Research Conference, 19-22 Oct. 2010, Vol I, 189-193.

Shen J (2010), Progress on enzymatic treatment of wool fibres with native and modified proteases, the Inaugural Symposium on Enzymes & Biocatalysis, Shanghai, China, 22-24 April 2010.

Shen J, Smith E, Farrand B and Zhang Q, (2008), Development of functional surface coatings of wool fibre using sol gel or extracted protein resin, Cost Action 868 – Biotechnical Functionalisation of Renewable Polymeric Materials, Varna, Bulgaria, 18-19 September 2008.

Shen J (2008), Enzymatic shrink-resist process based on modified proteases for machine washable wool, the 5th International Conference of Textile Research Division, 6-8 April 2008 in Cairo, Egypt.

Consultancy work

Textile materials and their performance
Textile dyeing, printing and finishing
Enzyme-based textile Biotechnology
Textiles effluent treatments
Protein fibres and multifunctional protein materials
Nano-layer surface coating
Sol-gel technology
Photocatalysis

Current research students

Mutinta Chizyuka (PhD candidate), “Development of sol-gel technology for textile surface coating to achieve self-cleaning and antibacterial properties” (1st Supervisor)

Wing Yin Choi (PhD candidate), “Future body measurement for clothing pattern making” (1st Supervisor)

Chetna Prajapati (PhD candidate), “Biotechnology for textile design: 3D colour and surface patterning” (1st Supervisor)

Laura Morgan (PhD candidate), “Laser technology for textile design: 3D colour and surface patterning”, (2nd Supervisor)

Joanne Horton (PhD candidate), "Novel applications of metallised embellishment for high value mixed media textiles" (1st Supervisor)

Kate Riley (PhD candidate), "Fibre choice for improved sustainability in regularly laundered healthcare textiles" (1st Supervisor)

Anita Ogbechie (PhD candidate), “Green Microencapsulation for antimicrobial coating of textiles" (2nd Supervisor)

Randa Alsabhi (PhD candidate), "3D printing on textiles", (1st Supervisor)

Nalinee Netithammakorn (PhD candidate), "Bioprocessing of wool and flax textile materials", (1st Supervisor)

Guoli Li (PhD candidate), "The effectiveness of orthotics in reducing the hallux valgus angle for patients with mild and moderate hallux valgus", (1st Supervisor)

Externally funded research grants information

Source of funds: AHRC Grant (AH/P014925/1)
Project title: Industrial Exploitation of Laser-Dyeing Processes for Apparel and Furnishing Textiles Markets
Role in project: Coordinator
Duration: 9 months
Starting date: 1st October 2017
Project value: £98,220
Collaborators: Loughborough University, Speedo, Camira Fabrics, Stretchline, Crystal Martin

Source of funds: Cotton Incorporated (CI)
Project title: Functional Cotton Fabrics with Durable Sensing Ability
Role in project: Coordinator12 months
Starting date: 1st January 2015
Total project value: US$77,432 Funding from CI: US$50,621
Collaborators: National Physical Laboratory, Loughborough University

Source of funds: Technology Strategy Board (TSB)
Project title: Laser Processing for Textile Surface Modification
Acronym: LPTSM
Role in project: DMU PI
Duration: 15 months
Starting date: 1st September 2014
Project value: £164,500
Collaborators: Camira Fabrics, Loughborough University

Source of funds: AHRC Research Grant-Standard (AH/J002666/1)
Project title: Laser Enhanced Biotechnology for Textile Design: 3D Colour and Surface Patterning
Acronym: LEBIOTEX
Role in project: Coordinator
Duration: 3 years
Starting date: 30th June 2012
Project value: £252,608
Collaborators: Loughborough University, Speedo, Camira Fabrics, Teresa Green Design

Source of funds: EU FP7 Collaborative Project Targeted to SMEs (NMP2-SE-2010-228439)
Project title: High-Protective Clothing for Complex Emergency Operation
Acronym: SAFEPROTEX
Role in project: DMU PI
Duration: 3.5 years
Starting date: 1st April 2010
Project value: €4,224,567
Collaborators: CLOTEFI (coordinator), INOTEX spol,s.r.o. (CZ), RESCOLL Technical Centre of Materials (FR), TDV Industries (FR), Tampere University of Technology (FI), GAIKER Technological Centre (ES), Swerea IVF AB (SE), Next Technology Tecnotessile Societá Nazionale di Ricerca (IT), LEITAT Technological Center (ES), Lenzi Egisto S.p.A (IT), Vyskumny ustav chemických vlakien (SK), CALSTA Work Wear S.A. (GR), NANOTHINX S.A. (GR), Suministros Iruñako S.V. (ES), CETEMMSA Technological Center (ES), SAR-ESPAÑA (ES), RESCUE GR (GR).

Source of funds: EU FP6 Co-operative Research Project in the “Horizontal Research Activities involving SMEs (COOP-CT-2005-032877)
Project title: Enzymatic Up-grading of Wool Fibres
Acronym: ENZUP
Role in project: Coordinator
Duration: 2 years
Starting date: 1st October 2006
Project value: €1,889,336
Collaborators: Tints Enrich S.L. (ES), Color-center S.A. (ES), Lokateks Skofja (SI), Qualizyme Biotechnology (A), VOF Ovis Texla (NL), James Weekers (NL), Graz University of Technology (A), University of Minho (P), TNO for Applied Scientific Research (NL), Technical University of Catlonia (ES), University of Maribor (SI).

Source of funds: UK DEFRA Renewable Industrial Materials (NF0529)
Project title: Development of Industrial Effluent Treatment Catalysts from Low Value Fleeces
Acronym:
Role in project: DMU Co-PI
Duration: 3 years
Starting date: 2004
Project value: £325,000
Collaborators: DMU Health and Life Sciences (Prof Katherine Huddersman, project coordinator and PI), Loughborough University, Fera, Woolmark, Effotreat.

Source of funds: EU FP5 Competitive and Sustainable Growth (G1RD-CT-2002-00695)
Project title: Modified Proteases for the Reduction of Felting and Shrinkage of Wool Textiles
Acronym: PROTEX
Role in project: Coordinator
Duration: 3.3 years
Starting date: 1st June 2002
Project value: €1,860,941
Collaborators: Drummond Parkland of England (UK), Alphachem Specialities Ltd (UK), VOF Ovis Texla (NL), James Weekers (NL), Graz University of Technology (A), University of Minho (P), TNO for Applied Scientific Research (NL).

Source of funds: EU FP5 Competitive and Sustainable Growth (G1RD-CT-1999-00064)
Project title: Biotechnical Treatment and Recycling of Textile Processing Effluents
Acronym: BIOEFFTEX
Role in project: DMU PI
Duration: 3 years
Starting date: 1st February 2000
Project value: €1,640,223
Collaborators: DWI (D) (coordinator), Textile Alberto De Sousa (P), VTT (FIN), University of Minho (P); Berghof (D), KRKA (SI), STOEHR (D), Graz University of Technology (A); Dystar (D); Quantum Clothing Group Limited (UK)

Published patents

Treatment of wool with enzyme extracted wool polypeptide, September 2010, filing for UK patent, application no.: 1015962.2.

Professional esteem indicators

Editorial board member of Textiles and Clothing Sustainability http://www.springer.com/materials/journal/40689
Editorial board member of the Journal of Textile Design Research and Practice http://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/journal/textile-design/
Chair of conference sessions at 12th Asian Textile Conference (ATC-12), Shanghai, China, October 23-26, 2013.
Chair of conference sessions atBIT’s 4^th Symposium of Enzymes & Biocatalysis, Nanjing, China, 25-27 April 2013.
Chair of conference sessions at the 7th International Conference on Polymer and Textile Biotechnology (IPTB2011) in Milan Italy, 2-4 March 2011.
Chair of conference sessions at the International Conference on Eco-Dyeing / Finishing and Green Chemistry (EDFGC2011) in Hangzhou, China, 8-12 June 2011.
Chair of conference sessions and keynote speech at 12th International Wool Research Conference, Shanghai, China, 19-22 October 2010.
Chair of conference sessions at the Inaugural Symposium on Enzymes & Biocatalysis, 22-24 April 2010 in Shanghai, China.
UK expert representative in EU COST ACTION 847 “Textile Quality and Biotechnology”, Specialist knowledge in three areas: (a) Cellulosic Fibres, (b) Protein Fibres and (c) Effluent Treatment.
EURATEX thematic expert representative on Biomaterials, biotechnologies and environmentally friendly textile processing (Group n° 3) for the European Technology Platform for the Future of Textiles and Clothing.
Chair of conference sessions at 5th International Conference of Textile Research Division, 6-8 April 2008 in Cairo, Egypt.
Keynote speech at 5th International Conference on Textile Biotechnology, 21-24 October 2007 in Wuxi, China.
Chair of conference sessions at the 3rd and 4th International Conference on Textile Biotechnology in 2004 and 2006.
Keynote speech at the 3rd International Conference on Textile Biotechnology, 13-16 June 2004 in Graz, Austria,
Chair of sessions at the COST ACTION 847 workshop, 11-12 November 2004 in Portugal.
External examiner for the postgraduate examination at University of Leeds, University of Karachi and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

Journal Refereeing information:

PROTEINS: Structure, Function, and Bioinformatics;
Biocatalysis and Biotransformation;
Journal of Engineered Fibers and Fabrics;
Coloration Technology;
Chemosphere;
Biotechnology Journal;
The Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology;
Textile Research Journal;
Journal of the Textile Institute;
Engineering in Life Sciences;
Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology;
Polymer International.

Jinsong Shen