1. Introduction

Rheum emodi, also known as Indian rhubarb and commonly known as 'Dolu' is a member of genus of perennial stout herbs distributed in the temperate and sub-tropical regions of the world, chiefly in Asia and originated in Mongolia. It is cultivated since long time in Europe and also acclimatised in Germany. The root of such plant finds application as astringent and purgative. The root of such plant also gives yellow colour in aqueous medium and the root contains a number of anthraquinone derivatives based on emodin, chrysophanol, aloe-emodin and rhein. The main colouring component of the root of Rheum emodi is chrysophanic acid, when extracted found to be associated with the above compounds. Such roots of Rheum emodi have been reported to dye wool and silk fibres. The present study is aimed at applying the colouring component of Rheum emodi on nylon substrate for establishing an optimum conditions of dyeing (like dye bath pH, temperature of dyeing, concentration of dye bath) and assessing different colourfastness properties.

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About the Authors

The authors are associated with Visva Bharati University, Department of Silpa Sadana (Textile Section), Sriniketan.