Dye-fibre association
Acid dyes
These are most commonly used for dyeing protein fibres such as wool
and silk, the term 'acid' referring to the fact that acid or an acid-producing
compound is used in the dyebath. There are different types including:
Levelling acid dyes: these are available in a range of bright colours
and have good light fastness, but their wash fastness is only moderate
Milling acid dyes: these are also available in a range of bright colours
and have good light and wash fastness, but are more difficult to apply
correctly than levelling dyes
Disperse dyes were introduced in the 1920s to dye acetate fibres, which were otherwise undyeable, although nowadays they are mainly used for polyester fibres. They are applied at relatively high temperatures
(over 100 °C).
Also See:
Dyes
and pigments: natural
Dyes
and pigments: synthetic
Fastness
tests
