Chemistry and Application of Natural Colourants

This chapter dwells on the history of dyes and dyeing across from pre-historic times and early civilizations across the world to present day coloration and techniques. This chapter explores the limitation of natural dyes that lead to its steady decline and transition to the modern-day synthetic dyes. This chapter discusses the various classification of natural dyes and also the chemical structure of these dyes. The prevalent and common methods of application of natural dyes are also discussed along with the comparison of the impacts of the usage of the natural colourants as compared to the synthetic dyes. The scope of the use of natural dyes on the performance criteria of fastness, and the durability properties of these coloured materials during use are also touched upon. The revival of dyeing with natural dyeing techniques in recent days will be emphasised in the context of rising concerns about fast fashion and growing demand for circular economy. This will also focus on standardisation techniques for the dyes so as to establish consistency in the application process.