Study on the Performance of Eco-Alkali in Dyeing of Cotton Fabric with Reactive Dyes

Dyeing was carried out on cotton fabric using Novacron Blue FN-R and Novacron Brilliant Red FN-3GL dyes in 0.5%, 1.5% and 4% shades using soda ash and eco-alkali. One-half, one-fourth, one-sixth and one-eighth amount of eco-alkali was used to analyze the performance of eco-alkali in comparison to the required amount of soda ash for the three shade%. Then color yield (K/S value), fixation efficiency (%), pH of wash liquor after dyeing, washing fastness and color uniformity results of dyed fabrics were analyzed and compared. Color yield was found better using one-fourth amount of eco-alkali in 0.5% and 1.5% shades and using half amount of eco-alkali in 4% shade. Fixation efficiency was found better using one-fourth amount of eco-alkali. pH of the wash liquor after dyeing was found less in case of using eco-alkali. Washing fastness and color uniformity of dyed fabrics were also comparable using lower amount of eco-alkali.