Optimization of Dyeing Process of Natural Dye Extracted from Polyalthia longifolia Leaves on Silk and Cotton Fabrics

Abstract

ABSTRACT The study approached to extract natural dye from the wastage leaves of Polyalthia longifolia and evaluate the dyeing properties on silk and cotton fabrics. Different analysis techniques were used to understand the characteristics of the dye and apply them to silk and cotton fabrics using UV–Vis spectrophotometer, FTIR, and SEM. The colorimetric properties were analyzed by reflectance spectrometry in terms of L*, a*, b*, c*, h°, and K/S values. The color fastness was investigated in terms of light, wash, rub (dry/wet), and perspiration tests. The optimum dye extraction obtained was 18% at 90°C in 60 min of extraction in the aqueous alkaline medium. The analysis results showed that the extracted reddish-brown colored dyes confirmed the presence of tannins and phenolic compounds. The color was fixed firmly on silk fabrics without any mordant. The post-mordanting method with ferrous sulfate and copper sulfate showed a better shade and lightfastness than other mordanting processes on silk fabrics. Ferrous sulfate and copper sulfate mordanted cotton fabrics showed good light and wash fastness properties. The study observed that the extracted natural dye of P. longifolia has the potential to be used as a textile dye.