Author(s): Okonkwo SN, Onuegbu GC, Obasi HC, Nnorom OO and Ojiaku PC
The application and colour fastness properties of aqueous dye extract from Whitfieldia lateritia leaves were studied. The UV-Vis and FT-IR spectra of the dye extracts showed the presence of polyphenols such as flavonoids and tannins. The extract was used to dye cotton fabrics using different mordants viz- alum/tannic acid, ferrous sulphate and potassium dichromate. Pre-mordanting, simultaneous mordanting and post-mordanting methods were also used to dye the cotton fabrics in the presence of sodium chloride as an electrolyte. The cotton fabrics showed a total or slight change in colours with different mordants and mordanting methods. The dyed fabrics were evaluated for Colour fastness to Washing, perspiration and light. The general assessment of the colour fastness tests showed that the aqueous extract of Whitfieldia lat-eritia dye applied under the influence of mordants irrespective of the method of application used showed good ratings.
