Surface modification and natural indigo dyeing of sisal fiber

Abstract

This study aims to investigate on the adjustment of texture and indigo dye using natural substance on Sisal fibre. Temperature, time period, conditions of texture adjustment process and ombre dying techniques on braided Sisal fibre are used as focal factors of the study. To elaborate further, the proper condition to alter braided Sisal fibre is by using softening agent and Surfactant each for 5 grams per litre at the temperature of 50 degree Celsius for 30 minutes, as a result, the tensile strength of the processed fibre has been reduced compared to the pre-processed ones. After the adjustment process, the fabric will be dyed in natural indigo dye with 5 distinctive pigment concentrations of 20, 30, 40, 100 and 200 grams per litre respectively. The colour fastness to washing is at good to high level, while artificial light fastness is at an excellent level (level 8). The colour fastness to rubbing under dry condition of the deepest pigment (of 200 grams per litre) indigo-dyed braided Sisal fibre simmered with Sodium Hydroxide and boiled with softening agent and Surfactant is at low level and the colour fastness to rubbing under wet condition of the deepest pigment (of 200 grams per litre) indigo-dyed braided Sisal fibre simmered in Sodium Hydroxide and boiled with softening agent and Surfactant is relatively low to average. Thus, it indicates that the softening agent could adjust Sisal fibre and its texture to be smoother and natural indigo dye could be adapted to dying Sisal textile as well.