This study investigated the comparative performance of natural dye extracted from Curcuma longa (turmeric) and a commonly used synthetic dye (Reactive Red 120) in textile applications. Cotton fabrics were dyed using turmeric extract prepared through ethanol extraction and a synthetic dye solution, with and without mordents such as alum, ferrous sulfate, and vinegar. The dyed fabrics were evaluated for color intensity, wash fastness, light fastness, and rub fastness, while the effluents were tested for pH and biodegradability. Results revealed that synthetic dye exhibited superior performance in shade depth and fastness properties, with higher K/S values and excellent resistance to washing, rubbing, and light. Conversely, turmeric dye produced moderate fastness properties, which were significantly improved by mordanting, particularly with ferrous sulfate. Environmental analysis indicated that turmeric dye effluent was near neutral (pH 6.8) and biodegradable, whereas synthetic dye effluent was alkaline (pH 10.5) and resistant to degradation, posing ecological risks. The findings highlight the trade-off between the durability of synthetic dyes and the eco-friendliness of natural dyes. This study concludes that while synthetic dyes remain dominant in large-scale applications due to superior performance, turmeric dye offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative suitable for small-scale or environmentally conscious textile production.
Auwal Adamu Aliyu (Fri,) studied this question.