
Sulfar Dyes
Sulfur dyes are water-insoluble dyes that become soluble in their reduced (leuco) form during the dyeing process. They are primarily used for cellulosic fibers like cotton and rayon due to their high affinity in alkaline, reducing environments. Once applied, the dye is oxidized to its original insoluble form, becoming fixed inside the fiber structure. This results in deep, dull shades—especially black, brown, and navy—with excellent wash and light fastness.
Property | Chemical Details | Application Info | Compatibility | Fastness | Standards & Storage |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Product Type | Sulfur Black 1 | Thionated sulfur dye | Cotton, viscose, blends | Wash: 3–4 Light: 5–6 |
Store in sealed bags Avoid humidity |
Molecular Structure | Complex sulfurized polyaromatic (insoluble in water) |
Requires reduction to leuco form | Cellulosic materials only | Bleach Resistance: Moderate | Shelf Life: 24 months Dry, ventilated space |
Fixation Type | Leuco-based Oxidation | Uses sodium sulfide for reduction | Forms insoluble pigments inside fibers | Rubbing Fastness: 3–4 | Complies with industrial standards |
Temp. Requirement | 95°C – 100°C | Ideal for continuous or batch dyeing | Works with jigger and pad-steam | Heat Stability: High | Avoid prolonged exposure to air |
Application Segment | Denim, Workwear, Home Textiles | Pad-steam, exhaust dyeing | Heavy fabrics, jeans, canvas | Durability: High | Store away from light and moisture |
Solubility & Form | Granular/Powder (Insoluble) | Soluble in reduced (leuco) form | Requires stirring in alkaline bath | Bath Stability: Moderate | Do not store below 5°C |
Product Name | Chemical Class | Dyeing Temp (°C) | pH Range | Fixation Method | Common Applications |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sulfur Black 1 | Thionated Aromatic | 95 – 100 | 10.5 – 12.0 | Sodium Sulfide Reduction + Oxidation | Denim, heavy cotton fabrics |
Sulfur Blue 15 | Poly-Sulfide Structure | 80 – 90 | 10.0 – 11.5 | Sodium Sulfide + Air Oxidation | Workwear, casuals, blended textiles |
Sulfur Brown 5 | Azo Condensed Sulfur | 90 – 100 | 10.5 – 11.5 | Reduction in Leuco Form + Oxidation | Uniforms, industrial fabrics |
Sulfur Red 14 | Sulfurized Naphthol | 85 – 95 | 10.0 – 11.0 | Sodium Sulfide Leuco Conversion | Denim accents, casualwear |
Sulfur Green 1 | Thio-Indigo Based | 90 – 100 | 10.5 – 11.8 | Salt + Sulfide Reduction + Oxidation | Military fabrics, durable textiles |
Sulfur Orange 1 | Sulfur Azo Hybrid | 85 – 95 | 10.0 – 11.0 | Sodium Sulfide + Controlled Oxidation | Home textiles, drapery, cotton bags |
Sulfur dyes are water-insoluble dyes that become soluble in their reduced (leuco) form during the dyeing process. They are primarily used for cellulosic fibers like cotton and rayon due to their high affinity in alkaline, reducing environments. Once applied, the dye is oxidized to its original insoluble form, becoming fixed inside the fiber structure. This results in deep, dull shades—especially black, brown, and navy—with excellent wash and light fastness.
The dyeing process typically involves the use of reducing agents such as sodium sulfide and is carried out at high temperatures (95°C–100°C) in alkaline conditions. The dye is then re-oxidized using air or oxidizing agents like hydrogen peroxide to lock the color within the fiber. Sulfur dyes are cost-effective and suitable for mass production in denim, workwear, and heavy fabric applications. However, due to effluent and odor concerns, wastewater treatment is crucial in modern dyeing operations.
To ensure consistent dyeing results and product shelf life, sulfur dyes should be stored in sealed, moisture-free conditions away from direct sunlight. While their color brightness is generally lower than that of reactive or vat dyes, their excellent durability and economic benefits make them a preferred choice in many industrial textile applications.
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