Dyeing of meta-aramid fibers with disperse dyes in supercritical carbon dioxide

Abstract

Dyeing characteristics of meta-aramid fibers were investigated in supercritical carbon dioxide by employing three disperse dyes and a carrier. The effects of dyeing temperature, pressure, time, dye concentration, CO2 flow, and carrier concentration on dyeing properties were investigated. The results showed that meta-aramid fiber could be dyed in supercritical carbon dioxide. Its color depth was improved with increasing dyeing temperature, pressure, time, dye concentration, CO2 flow, and carrier concentration. Moreover, the color depth could be significantly improved by adding the carrier. The dyeing procedure of supercritical carbon dioxide fluid did not influence the chemical structure and antistatic properties of the meta-aramid fiber. The maximum decomposition temperature and breaking strength of the dyed meta-aramid fiber are slightly increased. The dyed meta-aramid fiber in supercritical carbon dioxide had good fastness, which was rated at 4–5.