Work

Eco-Friendly Applications of Some Plant Extracts for Dyeing Cotton and Cellulose

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Scientific research, within the framework of a circular and sustainable economy, has increasingly focused on wild plants and agricultural by-products as valuable sources of bioactive compounds for innovative applications. In this study, the plant species selected for extract preparation and evaluation of their dyeing properties included Isatis tinctoria L., Castanea sativa, Juglans regia L., Rumex crispus L., Arbutus unedo L., and Punica granatum L. Each extract was analyzed to assess its dyeing performance on cotton and other cellulosic fabrics. Cellulose pads dyed with peels of P. granatum extract (PPGE) proved to be versatile and effective, showing potential for use in extending the shelf life of various fruits such as strawberries, apples, cherries, and persimmons. The optimum dyeing condition for cellulose and cotton fabrics was found to be 6% w/v dye. These findings support the development of natural, multifunctional materials suitable for food packaging applications aimed at preserving fresh produce, as well as for sustainable textile dyeing.

Source: Colorants

DOI: 10.3390/colorants4040037

Authors: Domenico Rongai, Maria Gabriella Di Serio, Daniele Schiavi, Cecilia Miccoli, Giorgio Mariano Balestra

Institution: Università degli Studi della Tuscia

Language: English

Topic: Dyeing and Modifying Textile Fibers

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,207