Eco-friendly Dyeing and UV Protection Properties of Wool Fabric Using Natural Dye from Eucalyptus

Abstract

This research examined a dye extracted from eucalyptus leaves and its application to wool fabric using pad-batch and pad-dry techniques under various conditions. A wool fabric dyed in a solution containing eucalyptus extract gave a shade of pale yellowish brown except when it was dyed with FeSO 4 , resulting in a shade of dark grayish brown. The fastness properties of dyed fabrics ranged from good to excellent, while light fastness was fair to good. It was observed that the fabric had excellent ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) values. In addition, a darker colour provided by FeSO 4 gave better protection because of its higher UV absorption. © 2013 Emerald Group Publishing Limited.