Oil-Based Fungal Pigment from Scytalidium cuboideum as a Textile Dye

Abstract

Identification of effective natural dyes with the potential for low environmental impact has been a recent focus of the textile industry. Pigments derived from spalting fungi have previously shown promise as textile dyes; however, their use has required numerous organic solvents with human health implications. This research explored the possibility of using linseed oil as a carrier for the pigment from Scytalidium cuboideum as a textile dye. Colored linseed oil effectively dyed a range of fabrics, with natural fibers showing better coloration. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a pigment film over the fabric surface. While mechanical testing showed no strength loss in treated fabric, colorfastness tests showed significant changes in color in response to laundering and bleach exposure with variable effects across fabric varieties. SEM investigation confirmed differences in pigmented oil layer loss and showed variation in pigment crystal formation between fabric varieties. Heating of the pigmented oil layer was found to result in a bright, shiny fabric surface, which may have potential for naturally weatherproof garments.

Preliminary Examination of the Toxicity of Spalting Fungal Pigments: A Comparison between Extraction Methods

“…Many dyes currently in use in the textile industry have been shown to have toxic effects [ 81 ], and the development of natural dyes to replace toxic synthetics has been a focus of research [ 82 ]. Additionally, as the processes currently used for dyeing with dramada do not produce wastewater [ 59 , 83 , 84 ], there is a limited likelihood of effluent reaching watersheds and impacting fish development. In addition, dramada has limited solubility in water and strongly binds to materials such as textiles, wood, and glass, making transfer and high levels of exposure unlikely.…”

Color Stains on Paper: Fungal Pigments, Synthetic Dyes and Their Hypothetical Removal by Enzymatic Approaches

“…The fungal species Scytalidium cuboideum has been characterized as a producer of naturally occurring red/ping pigments that can crystalize [78]. These crystalline pigments have a naphthoquinone structure and were reported to require an easy methodology for their isolation, which is beneficial for different industries and green energy production [78][79][80].…”

Fungi and Fungal Metabolites for the Improvement of Human and Animal Nutrition and Health

“…The last original paper and the third on fungal pigments and colorants deals with pigments derived from spalting fungi that have previously shown promise as textile dyes; however, their use has required numerous organic solvents with human health implications. Palomino Agurto et al [ 14 ] explore the possibility of using linseed oil as a carrier for the pigment from Scytalidium cuboideum as a textile dye. Colored linseed oil effectively dyed a range of fabrics, with natural fibers showing better coloration.…”