In a groundbreaking study published in the journal *Cleaner Materials* (translated as “Cleaner Materials”), researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi have unlocked the potential of a novel, eco-friendly dye derived from oxygenic photogranules. The lead author, Vivek Kumar Nair, and his team have demonstrated that phycocyanin, a pigment extracted from these unique biomass sources, could revolutionize the textile industry by offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes.
The study reveals that optimal extraction of phycocyanin was achieved through a combination of freeze-thawing and ultrasonication, yielding an impressive 104.69±3.8 mg/g. “This method not only maximizes yield but also ensures the stability of the extracted phycocyanin for long-term storage,” Nair explains. The researchers found that ammonium sulphate played a crucial role in stabilizing the extracted pigment, making it viable for commercial applications.
One of the most compelling aspects of this research is the dye’s affinity for different textile fibers. Cotton, in particular, showed a remarkable dye adsorption rate of 55.5±2.8 mg/g, significantly higher than silk’s 31.32±1.09 mg/g. Even after five washes, cotton retained 64.97% of its color, compared to silk’s 44.43%. “The superior affinity and wash fastness of phycocyanin on cotton make it a promising candidate for large-scale textile dyeing,” Nair notes.
While cotton demonstrated excellent UV protection with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) value of over 200, silk exhibited higher antioxidant activity at 93.93±1.76%. This dual functionality adds a new dimension to the potential applications of phycocyanin in the textile industry.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As the world shifts towards sustainable and eco-friendly practices, the demand for natural dyes is on the rise. Phycocyanin from oxygenic photogranules offers a viable solution, reducing the environmental impact of textile dyeing processes. “This study underscores the potential of phycocyanin as a sustainable and functional natural dye for textile fibers,” Nair concludes.
The findings published in *Cleaner Materials* open up new avenues for the textile industry, paving the way for innovative and environmentally friendly dyeing techniques. As researchers continue to explore the capabilities of phycocyanin, the future of sustainable textiles looks brighter than ever.