Natural Approach to Improving Light Fastness of a Leather Dyed with a Microbial Colorant

Abstract

Microbial colorants are becoming popular because they have thepotential to overcome disadvantages of synthetic and naturaldyes. However, for commercialization, their after dyeingcharacteristics especially light fastness needs to be improvedpreferably using natural agents to make the complete dyeingprocess eco-benign. Therefore, in this study, eco-friendlytannins and antioxidants were employed to improve the lightfastness of wet blue goat nappa skin dyed with the colorant ofPenicillium minioluteum. Their effect on color strength, fastnessproperties, and mechanical strength were also assessed. As aresult, the only sample treated with tannic acid before dyeingshowed moderate light fastness with improved perspiration, tear,and tensile strength. Further improvement in light fastness wasrecorded when tannic acid treated and dyed sample was paddedwith vitamin E - gum acacia emulsion (10% vitamin E, 10%glycerol, 4.5% gum acacia powder). Here, improvement inperspiration and rub fastness was also noticed.