The synthesis of a series of 3-(p-substituted phenylazo)-6-pyridone dyes which is suitable for the dyeing of polyester fabrics, is described. Visible absorption spectra of the dyes were examined in various solvents and the compounds in solution exhibited hydrazone-common anion equilibrium. The electronic absorption spectra cover a λ max range of 404-464 nm in DMF at uniformly high absorption intensity between 5.33 × 10 4-8.55 × 10 4 l•mol-1 •cm-1 and gave bright intense hues of yellow to orange on polyester fabrics. The colour parameters of the dyed fabrics were measured and the dyes have excellent exhaustion between 72%-79% for polyester fabrics, more intense and of very good fastness properties on polyester fabrics. The remarkable degree of levelness and brightness after washing is indicative of good penetration and excellent affinity of these dyes for the polyester fabric.

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