Optical Studies of Cotton Fabrics Dyed with a Natural Dye

In the present work, cotton fabrics were dying with a natural colorant from Calligonum comosum plant under different conditions to determine the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) values and the effect of light exposure and laundering on the sun blocking properties of these dyed cotton fabrics. Three different dyeing conditions, such as: different bath temperatures, different pH values of the dye bath and different dyeing times, were applying during dyeing the cotton fabrics. The role of these dyeing conditions on the UPF was examining via color strength analyses as well as their effects on the reflectance spectra were investigating using spectrophotometer tool, CIE tristimulus values and the color parameters. The dye-ability strength and fastness to light and wash of these cotton fabrics were also carrying out spectrophotometrically. The results showed that dyeing cotton fabrics with Calligonum comosum dramatically increased their protective abilities and were considering as an effective protection against ultraviolet rays. Moreover, the data obtained indicated that the optical properties are very different because of changing dye bath conditions. In addition, it was hoping that data obtained in the present study would be useful for dermatologists advising patients regarding the UV-protective properties of clothing made from natural fibers and dyed with natural colorants.