Abstract:
The uses of non-allergic and non-toxic natural dyes on textile materials have become a
matter of significant importance. In spite of much research work being done on natural
dye application on textile materials, its performance is not yet satisfactory. This is
because their better performance has not been broadly or systematically studied. In
this investigation, an attempt has been made to study the dye-ability of cotton fabric
using natural dye extracted from Osyris quadripartita (Qerete) plant. The extraction
parameters have been studied to obtain optimum dye extract. Dyeing with and without
mordant was conducted. Pre-, Meta- and Post- mordanting techniques were applied.
The dyed samples were analyzed in terms of fastness properties. The percentage of
loss in moisture content from the plant leaves was 4.7% and the moisture regain was
4.9%. The light fastness obtained from the dyed fabric was 4/5. Similarly, the dry
crock fastness for directly dyed cotton sample was 5/5, while the wet crock fastness
of direct dyed cotton test result recorded grade was 4/5. Furthermore, the washing
fastness obtained was 5/5. The results of this investigation led to the conclusion that
direct dyeing without mordant is feasible with the better fastness properties of cotton
dyeing with natural dyes.
