Evaluation of Dye Uptake and Fastness in Degummed Banana Fibre across Different Dye Concentrations
B S Akhila
Department of Fruit Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.
P R Manju *
Department of Fruit Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.
S Simi
Department of Fruit Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Banana fibre, a natural and biodegradable material derived from pseudostem of the plant, has gained growing attention in the textile industry due to its strength, availability, and environmental advantages. However, its lignocellulosic structure requires systematic evaluation to understand its interaction with various dyeing conditions. This study focuses on the dyeing behavior of banana fibre using three different colour red, blue and yellow applied at three concentration levels 1%, 2% and 3%, with the aim of assessing key colouration parameters relevant to textile performance and sustainability. The samples treated were then subjected to standard tests for light fastness (1-8), washing fastness (0-5), and colour value. The L*, a*, b* and ΔE* value measurements were undertaken to quantify dye uptake and visual colour intensity, enabling an understanding of shade development across concentrations. The study highlights the potential of banana fibre as a viable alternative textile material, capable of achieving satisfactory colouration properties while supporting sustainable material development.
Keywords: Banana fibre, tensile properties, dyeing performance, colour fastness