Application of Eugenol-Derived Azo Dyes on Natural Textile Fabrics

The textile industry plays a major role in the global economy, , providing employment and essential materials to multiple sectors. However, it is increasingly pressured to adopt environmentally sustainable practices due to its high consumption of water, energy, and the extensive use of synthetic chemicals that often generate toxic effluents. In this context, the development of dyes from renewable resources is an important strategy. Eugenol (4-allyl-2-methoxyphenol), a natural phenolic compound extracted from clove (Syzygium aromaticum) essential oil, offers an attractive and promising platform for the synthesis of functional azo dyes due to its reactive aromatic structure.

Considering the influence of pH on dyeing processes and subsequent treatments, the present study on eugenol-derived azo dyes began with an investigation of their behavior across a range of pH values using UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, in order to evaluate their stability and potential pH sensitivity. Subsequently, these dyes were applied to textile substrates by exhaustion dyeing, and their colorimetric properties were analyzed using the CIEL*a*b* system. The washing and light fastness of the dyed fabrics were evaluated in all the experiments conducted.

The results demonstrate good dye-fiber affinity and satisfactory fastness properties, underscoring the potential of eugenol-based azo dyes as sustainable alternatives for textile coloration.