Optimization of Natural Dyeing Using Ultrasonic Method and Biomordant

Problem statement: Traditionally the dyeing of natural dyes from plant materials was done by boiling using roaches method which requires longer time, higher temperature and metallic mordant to get good color fastness. Metallic mordants usually used in dyeing posed some serious bad effect to ecological. Thus this study explored a suitable technique for more efficient natural dyeing using suitable bio mordant to improve the color fastness of natural dyes on silk fabric. Approach: This study demonstrated ultrasonic cleaner as a technique of dyeing the colorant from a selected plant, i.e Xylocarpus moluccensis to a selected fabric, i.e silk. Colorant from combination of heartwood and bark (as a biomordant) of Xylocarpus moluccensis was dyed at different ultrasonic volume and time. Result: Results show the highest percentage of dye absorbed to silk fabric using ultrasonic cleaner was produced at optimum condition of medium sonic volume in 80 minutes time. Bark of Xylocarpus moluccensis was used as the biomordant to produce good color fastness properties to washing and perspiration. Conclusion: The utilization of ultrasonic cleaner and biomordant was found to have significant improvement in the dyeing color of natural dyes to silk fabric with lower dyeing temperature compared to traditional roaches method.