Enhancing the sustainability and hygiene in the dyeing of wool yarns with prangos ferulacea aerial parts extract in conjunction with metal-biomordant combinations

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of Prangos ferulacea, as a sustainable flavonoid-based natural dye source for textile dyeing, UV protection, and antioxidant finishing. It examines the influence of dyeing conditions, and various mordant types, and evaluates their respective impacts on color characteristics, mechanical properties, antioxidant and UV protection properties. Quantitative analysis reveals the distinct yellow hue achieved through the use of aerial parts extract of P. ferulacea extract, with hues ranging from 70 degrees to 96 degrees, producing warm tones. In general, different natural mordants, when combined with specific metal mordants, create color variations. However, in particular, combinations of iron and copper mordants provide the most intense colors. Comprehensive color fastness assessments highlight the good washing and light fastness of aerial parts extract with copper and iron biomordant combinations. FT-IR and SEM analysis of undyed and dyed wool yarns provided additional support to the current dyeing results of enhanced color shade and high color depth values. Furthermore, the two-step mordanting and subsequent dyeing process provide a sustainable way of enhancing the shade range on wool fiber with 75.0% (o.w.f.) P. ferulacea aerial parts extract without any significant damage (tensile strength) to the surface of the wool. Wool yarns dyed with P. ferulacea whole plant extract showed enhanced antioxidant and UV protection properties, potentially enhancing the sustainability of textile products such as medical textiles and UV-protective clothing which in turn reduces the need for synthetic chemical agents in textiles. P. ferulacea emerges as a promising natural colorant, offering attractive hues, antioxidant, and UV protection benefits for sustainable textile dyeing.