IntroductionPolyester is one of the polymers which contain ester linkages formed from poly condensation reaction between dicarboxylic acid and diols [1]. The main reason being the cheap and easily available raw material along with desirable properties such as high strength, light weight and easily dye able, these fibers possess wrinkle resistance as well as good wash and wear properties [2]. It is the most hydrophobic in fiber nature among the common fibers. Due to their compact morphology, its aqueous dyeing required high energy to sorb the disperse colorant [3,4]. A disperse dye has very low water solubility, having affinity for one or more hydrophobic fibers. These are basically nonionic in nature, and are Pol.
AbstractUltrasonic (US) energy has revolutionized the dyeing process by introducing the cost and energy effective tools for textile processing. The objective of this research was to use ultrasonic waves as eco-friendly technique to enhance the dyeing process of polyester fabric using disperse red. The fabrics and dye solutions were exposed to ultrasonic waves for 10-60 min. at 60ºC. It was found that 40 min. is the optimal treatment time for fabric to get good colour strength using untreated Disperse Red 343. Whereas good colour strength was obtained by dyeing US treated fabric using non US treated dye solution for 30 min. keeping M:L of 1:60 at pH 10 of dyeing bath. At these conditions not only leveled dyeing was achieved but the good colour fastness characteristics were achieved. It is found that ultrasonic radiation has a great potential to improve the dyeing beahviour of polyester fabric using Disperse Red343 dye.