Dyes and technology: recent advances in wool dyeing

Abstract

The author reviews developments in wool dyeing over the last 30 years. The emphasis on machine washable wool, particularly in Europe, has led to changes in dye applications and in the dyestuffs themselves. The author points out the improvements with 2:1 premetallized dyes: new amphoteric auxiliaries as well as the introduction of monosulfonated 2:1 premetallized dyes. Solvent dyeing, chrome effluent minimization, and new dyeing machinery are reported. Improved exhaustion of chrome dyes may be achieved with Glauber salts or with lactic acid as auxiliaries.