The use of cochineal and Monascus purpureus as dyes for cotton fabric

This study describes the dyeing efficiency of cochineal (Dactylopius coccus Costa) and Monascus purpureus colorants on cotton fabric. The effects of mordant, dyeing time and temperature on the shades and fastness properties of both colorants were studied. The colour coordinate values indicate that the cochineal colorant exhibited higher colour strength than M. purpureus for premordanted cotton fabric (4% owf). Optimum dyeing with M. purpureus was observed at a temperature of 80 °C for 80 min at a 30:1 liquor ratio. However, for cochineal, the optimum dyeing conditions were 60 °C for 60 min at a 40:1 liquor ratio. Furthermore, both colorants demonstrated moderate to good fastness properties. The results of the study indicate that cochineal has better dyeing properties than M. purpureus colorants.