Optimized Dyeing of Cotton with semi-synthetic Embelin Ninhydrin Dye Obtained by Chemical Modification of Embelin from Embelia Schimperi

Abstract

Chemical modification is a promising path to address the limitations of a natural dye, such as limited shades and inadequate fastness properties. This study investigated the modification of embelin (2, 5-dihydroxy-3-unde-cyl-1, 4-benzoquinone) a plant-based benzoquinone compound from Embelia schimperi (Myrisinaceae family) with ninhydrin to get a semi- synthetic dye. The modified dye was applied to cotton fabric along with mordants to provide different shades. Optimum dyeing conditions were determined using Central Composite Design which showed optimum con-ditions of pH at 9, time of 60 min and temp of 80°C. The color fastness ratings were in the range of 4–5 evaluated on the Gray scale.