Eco-Friendly Dyeing of Silk with Natural Dye

Indian subcontinent possesses large plant resources of which, only little has been exploited so far. During the last few years, the world has become increasingly aware of the environmental issues. In view of the recent awareness of the carcinogenicity of some synthetic dyes, they have to be phased out. Natural dyes are an eco-friendly alternative to these hazardous dyes. Most of the plants used for extraction of dyes are credited with medicinal properties. Considering high consumer interest in natural dyes and their functional properties, there is increasing interest in adding value to textiles by the use of natural dyes. The author provides a detailed review about the art and craft of textile dyeing, history, development, and classification of natural dyes. This book also comprises of a research work undertaken by the author to explore unfamiliar source of natural dye and to optimize the extraction and dyeing process. The book describes the step wise methodology of extraction, dyeing and mordanting. Effect of dyeing and mordanting parameters on the development of colour was studied, and colour fastness of the explored natural dye for dyeing of silk fabric was assessed.