Efficient processing of raw material defines the ecological position of natural dyes in textile production

The production of natural dyes from plant sources available in the moderate climate of Austria (Europe) has been studied. Besides direct agricultural production, additional sources e.g., bark from timber industry and wastes from food industry have been investigated. Model calculations of energy consumption indicate that stabilised plant material e.g., dried plants, is favourable compared to dyestuff extracts. The low dyestuff content of the crops demands extraction of huge amounts of plant material, thus extraction should be performed in water only. Dyeing experiments indicate that based on a selection of dyestuffs and mordants an acceptable quality level can be reached.