Abstract
Identification of effective natural dyes with the potential for low environmental impact has been a recent focus of the textile industry. Pigments derived from spalting fungi have previously shown promise as textile dyes; however, their use has required numerous organic solvents with human health implications. This research explored the possibility of using linseed oil as a carrier for the pigment from Scytalidium cuboideum as a textile dye. Colored linseed oil effectively dyed a range of fabrics, with natural fibers showing better coloration. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a pigment film over the fabric surface. While mechanical testing showed no strength loss in treated fabric, colorfastness tests showed significant changes in color in response to laundering and bleach exposure with variable effects across fabric varieties. SEM investigation confirmed differences in pigmented oil layer loss and showed variation in pigment crystal formation between fabric varieties. Heating of the pigmented oil layer was found to result in a bright, shiny fabric surface, which may have potential for naturally weatherproof garments.
Highlights
Natural dyes and pigments have a long history of use for coloring textiles, from ancient Egypt to the oldest South American cultures [1,2,3,4,5]
All testing methodology followed either accepted the American Society of Testing Material (ASTM) standards or were based on testing used in previous work with these spalting pigments on textiles
No significant difference was seen in tensile strength between untreated fabric samples, fabric samples treated with linseed oil alone, and samples treated with pigmented oil
Summary
Natural dyes and pigments have a long history of use for coloring textiles, from ancient Egypt to the oldest South American cultures [1,2,3,4,5]. Artificial dyes currently dominate the market due to their ease of mass production, low price, and color variety [5]. Most modern textile colorants are produced using hazardous chemicals and many contribute to water pollution through the production of effluents [6,7]. The low environmental impact and sustainability of natural dyes have become more desired by consumers, driving a shift in the market back to natural sources of coloration [8,9]. Natural dyes often have problems with colorfastness, and, while methods have been developed to improve dye uptake [11,12,13], they are energy intensive and increase the production price [14,15,16]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
