Application of natural dye on polytrimethylene terephthalate fiber

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the feasibility of developing an eco-friendly dyeing process for a regenerated polyester fiber (polytrimethylene terephthalate) using a natural dye (Lac) and bio-mordant.

Design/methodology/approach

The effects of temperature, time, initial pH of dye bath, material to liquor ratio and mordant concentration on color strength of polytrimethylene terephthalate fiber dyed with Lac were examined. The results were compared using three bio-mordant (catechu, myrobalan and pomegranate) and three inorganic mordant (alum, ferrous sulfate and stannous chloride). Single replicate of 25-design methodology was used to identify three significant factors affecting color strength, and optimization was done using response surface methodology based on 2³-central composite rotatable design.

Findings

Color strength achieved using catechu as a bio-mordant was close to that with ferrous sulfate and higher than with stannous chloride. Temperature, initial pH and mordant concentration were identified as significant factors affecting color strength of dyed fiber with catechu. Optimization revealed temperature of 133OC, initial pH of 6 and bio-mordant (Catechu) concentration of 10 per cent to be the optimal conditions for dyeing, with K/S value of 4.55.

Originality/value

The study revealed the possibility of satisfactory dyeing of regenerated polyester fibers with natural dyes, replacing disperse dyes. The comparison of color strength achieved indicated the possibility of replacing inorganic mordant with bio-mordant in such dyeing process. The dyeing process could thus be made more eco-friendly by removal of toxic chemicals from effluents.

Citation

Sen, A., Bhowal, A. and Datta, S. (2019), "Application of natural dye on polytrimethylene terephthalate fiber", Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, Vol. 23 No. 1, pp. 71-90. https://doi.org/10.1108/RJTA-06-2018-0041