Optimization and Characterization of Prepared Nano-Disperse Dyes via a Sonication Process and Their Application in Textile Dyeing and Printing

Disperse blue 3 and disperse orange 1 dyes were subjected to an innovative process to convert them to a nanoscale size by sonication via an ultrasonic homogenizer. The obtained dyes were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The sonicated dyes (SNDs) were used for dyeing and printing (flat screen and transfer printing techniques) of polyester (PET) and cotton fabrics and compared with a non-sonicated (NSND) dye. Variable studies including sonicated and non-sonicated durations were used to optimize the sonication conditions. The effects of dye concentration, dyeing temperature, dyeing time, and carrier concentration were studied in terms of dye uptake and shade in dyed and printed fabrics. Additionally, in the transfer printing technique, the proper transfer fixation times were evaluated. To determine the significance of this treatment, analysis of variance was implemented via a two-way ANOVA test. The dyed and printed samples were evaluated for fastness properties.