Optimization of dyeing process of wool with extract of saffron petals using response surface methodology

Recently the awareness of the demand on eco-friendly dyes in textile applications is increased, since the natural dyes can reveal better biodegradability and generally have a higher compatibility with the environment. There are ongoing attempts to overcome some disadvantages related to natural dyeing such as prolonged dyeing time, consumption of energy, and chemicals used. In this point of view, the optimization of process parameters is a good alternative. In this work, the dyeing of wool fibers with extract of saffron petals is presented. The response surface methodology is used to optimize the process parameters and to investigate the relationship between different factors taken into consideration, such as dyeing time, dye concentration, mordant amount, dyeing temperature and pH. The dye uptake was evaluated by absorbance measurements, using UV-Vis spectrophotometer and was used as response. The optimal dyeing conditions for obtaining the highest dye uptake value were as follows: dyeing time 69.89 minutes, dye concentration 3.7%, mordant amount 1.02g (0.56%) , dyebath pH 2.08, dyeing temperature 110ᵒC.