Understanding the Fastness Issues of Natural Dyes

Abstract

The utilization of natural dyes in textile production has gained significant attention due to their eco-friendly characteristics and minimal environmental impact. Serving as a sustainable alternative for textile coloring, particularly when derived from native plant species, natural dyes contribute to the promotion of local biodiversity. Obtained from various botanical sources such as flora, flowers, leaves, roots, berries, barks, and wood, they offer a diverse range of hues spanning blues, reds, yellows, browns, and violets. However, achieving consistent and predictable colors with natural dyes presents challenges due to inherent variations in plant sources, growing conditions, and extraction techniques. The integration of mordants, including aluminum potassium sulfate, potassium dichromate, copper sulfate, and others, is crucial to enhance dye absorption and improve colorfastness. Natural dyes are employed across fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, wool, hemp, and blends, each contributing unique qualities to the vibrant and environmentally friendly palette. Yet, the longevity and strength of colors may vary based on factors like dye type, fabric substrate, and mordant effects, impacting chemical bonding between fibers, dyes, and mordants. Hence, meticulous selection of dyes and mordants, considering their compatibility with specific fibers, is essential for achieving optimal colorfastness and durability in natural dyeing processes.