Common Dyes and Their Properties
This ready reference addresses the classification, properties, bonding, mode of manufacturing, and application areas of dye materials.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Common Dyes and Their Properties
Chapter 1: Common Dyes and Their Properties
A dye is a colored chemical substance that imparts color when applied to a substrate. Dyes are generally soluble in solvents, and they can be natural or synthetic.
Dyeing has been in practice for over 5,000 years. Earlier dyes were of animal, vegetable, or mineral origin, with very little processing involved. The roots, berries, bark, leaves, and wood of plants were the major source of dyes.
William Henry Perkin discovered the first organic dye, mauve or aniline, in 1856. Thousands of dyes have been discovered since then. Synthetic dyes cost less, offer a vast range of colors, and impart better properties on dyeing. These dyes soon replaced the traditional natural dyes.
This handbook discusses different types of dyes and their uses.
Properties of Dyes
The properties of dyes are based on the following factors:
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Shade (brightness or dullness)
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Fastness Requirements
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Level Dyeing Properties
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Ease of Application
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Dusting
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Environmental Concerns
Ease of application, durability of color, and resistance to sunlight and chemicals are important properties that are considered when selecting a dye for use.
A good dye has the following qualities:
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It has a suitable color.
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It fixes itself to fabrics.
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It has fastness properties, such as:
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Fastness to light.
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Resistance to the action of water, diluted acids, alkalis, and various organic solvents used in dry cleaning.
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