Process maximization of salt free reactive dyeing on cotton using Taguchi approach

Abstract

This study optimized the salt free reactive dyeing process using the Taguchi approach. Dyeing of cotton fabric with reactive dyes is popular because of its bright and brilliant color in various shade ranges. Cationization with ALBAFIX-WFF and the dyeing process on cotton fabric was carried out using the exhaust method. To determine the optimum process conditions, two types of multiple characteristic parameters, including the single characteristic value conversion method and the process maximization method, were used on the basis of color strength (K/S) and wash fastness. The single characteristic value conversion method confirmed that the optimum process condition was a cationization temperature of 40 °C and a dyeing pH of 11. Most importantly, the optimal conditions were confirmed by the process maximization method as a concentration of ALBAFIX-WFF 30 g/L, cationization temperature at 80 °C, dyeing pH 12, and material-to-liquor ratio (M:L) of 1:5. More suitable dyeing properties are also achieved by the process maximization method.