Dyeing processes of 100% bio-based and degradable polylactide/poly (hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) textiles

Abstract

This paper reports an investigation of dyeing processes of textiles made from a novel 100% bio-based and fully degradable polylactide/poly (hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) (PLA/PHBV) fiber. The dye exhaustion, depth of shade and fastness, as well as bursting strength of dyed PLA/PHBV fabrics have been evaluated in terms of types and concentration of dyestuff, dyeing bath temperature, duration, liquor ratio and pH value. Finally, the energy cost of the whole dyeing process of the proposed material is calculated and compared with that of polyethylene terephthalate. The experimental results show that an excellent dyeing effect and bursting strength can be achieved by properly applied dyes (e.g. C.I. Disperse Orange 30, Red 74, and Blue 79) under optimal low-dyeing-temperature conditions (100℃, 10 min, pH 5, LR 30:1). In addition, considering the low energy cost during the whole process, PLA/PHBV fibers can be regarded as a promising and environment-friendly material for the textile industry.