Single bath dyeing of modified nylon/cotton blended fabrics using direct/acid dyes

Purpose This study aims to deal with the dyeing of nylon-/cotton-blended fabric in one bath using direct and acid dyes. Design/methodology/approach The cellulose in cotton/nylon-blended fabric was chemically modified using 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl tri-methyl ammonium chloride (CHPTAC) as cationizing agent to impart positive charge on the cellulose. The modified and unmodified blended fabrics were dyed in a single bath with direct and acid dyes under various concentrations of 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 6 per cent on the weight of fabric by exhaust method. The dyeing of modified and unmodified fabrics was characterized through the properties such as K/S and colorfastness to washing, rubbing and light. Findings The modified fabric exhibited higher color yield, comparable rubbing fastness and good washing fastness. Originality/value The dye uptake was maximum in a single-bath dyeing process of nylon-/cotton-blended fabrics without electrolyte addition, which minimizes the impact of dyes on environment.