Functional Dyeing of Wool with Natural Dye Extracted from Berberis vulgaris Wood and Rumex Hymenosepolus Root as Biomordant

In this study, a functional colorant, Berberine, extracted from Berberis vulgaris wood was applied onto wool fiber using the extract of roots of Rumex Hymenosepolus as biomordant. The effect of treatment variables on the color strength of dyed fibers was examined. The fastness properties of dyed wool against washing, light, dry and wet rubbing were evaluated. Dyed samples were tested for antibacterial activity using AATCC test method 100-2004. Tannin present in the roots of Rumex hymenosepolus when used as a biomordant on wool increased the color strength of the dyed goods. Increase in dyeing time, temperature and pH caused deeper shades. Biomordanting, increased light fastness, rub fastness and wash fastness of dyed samples. The dyed wool represented a high level of antibacterial activity. The extract of the Berberis vulgaris can be considered as a natural dye of acceptable fastness properties together with excellent antibacterial activity for woolen textiles.