Novel methods have been developed by mills and researchers
due to competition in the denim industry. Thus dyeing properties
of natural dye, M. tenuiflora extract, with different mordants
were investigated. Various colour effects were obtained
with different mordants. Highest colour strength values were
obtained at indigo dyed fabrics due to indigo. Highest L* values
were observed in the case of both Al and Pb mordanted
fabrics. Vividness values increased with Ni mordant. Moderate
light fastness values were observed. Although indigo has good
light fastness values, light fastness was observed at moderate
levels owing to M. tenuiflora extract. Poor wet and dry rubbing
fastnesses were obtained in indigo dyed fabrics due to low rubbing
fastness of indigo.
Natural dyes have been getting more important due to their
advantages that are aforementioned. Our further work will be
focussed on the use of various natural dyes in the production
of denim goods.