Dye Extracted from Boat Lily Plant (Tradescantia spathacea) Leaves and its Application to Jusi Silk Fabric

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Recent researches show that natural dye or pigment is the most important colorant used to change the color of fabric that is widely used in different industries. Mordant acts as a link between the fiber and dyestuff, and these are substances that have an affinity for both textile fibers and dyes. The researcher aimed to develop a new source of natural dye from boat lily plant leaves, since its color appears to be bright purple that is inexpensive and can be applied to a fabric used in different embroidery products.

METHODS

The researcher utilized both the experimental and descriptive method to study the boat lily plant leaves as a source of natural dye. This study was conducted in three different phases, (1) extraction of dye from the leaves of boat lily plant through aqueous method solution, (2) lab test conducted at Philippine Textile Research institute, and (3) selected embroidery proprietors and embroidery dyers in Lumban were given a questionnaire to evaluate the dyed jusi silk fabric in terms of its appearance and market value.

RESULTS

The researcher determined the potential of boat lily plant leaves to be a source of natural dye for jusi silk fabric colorants. The application of dye extracted from the leaves of a boat lily plant was possible and could be used as natural dye based on laboratory test results on Colorfastness to Laundering and Rubbing which was 4.5 out of 5 standard rating scale. The survey on appearance obtained a weighted mean average of 4.56 or Highly Evident for the embroidery proprietor group and 4.41 or Highly Evident for the embroidery dyer group which shows satisfaction on the dye color. The dyed Jusi fabric was rated and evaluated in terms of its market value and obtained a rating of 4.49 or Highly Evident for both groups.

DISCUSSIONS

The Dye Extracted from the Leaves of Boat Lily Plant (Tradescantia spathacea) applied to Jusi Silk Fabric shows a vibrant and acceptable color in three different shades depending on the types of mordanting method. The Chemical Test result for Colorfastness to Laundering using the AATCC Test Method 61-2013 and AATCC TM8-2016, Colorfastness to Crocking indicates that there was no significant difference compared to the standard rating scales given by the AATCC in terms quality and market value.