Sustainable Dyeing of Cotton Fabric Using Aqueous Extracts of Artocarpus heterophyllus Sawdust Waste with Different Concentrations of Cellulose Nanocrystals (CNCs): A Novel Application of Nanotechnology 


Vol. 27,  No. 4, pp. 1831-1846, Apr.  2026
10.1007/s12221-026-01342-7


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  Abstract

The textile industry faces growing pressure to adopt sustainable dyeing practices and reduce environmental impact. This study explores an innovative and sustainable dyeing approach using aqueous extracts from Artocarpus heterophyllus sawdust waste combined with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) to enhance dye performance on cotton fabric. This research investigates the effect of CNC concentrations (2, 4, and 6%) on dyeing performance, color strength, fastness properties, ultraviolet protection factor (UPF), and environmental impact. Optimal dyeing conditions were established at a liquor ratio of 1:20, 70 °C, and 90 min, yielding significant improvements in dye uptake. SEM and FTIR analyses confirmed strong interactions between CNCs, dye molecules, and cotton fibers, resulting in enhanced surface morphology and chemical bonding. Thermal stability was significantly improved with CNC incorporation, as shown by TGA. CNC-treated fabrics exhibited superior fastness properties, with 6% of CNC-treated samples achieving the highest ratings in wash, light, and crocking fastness. Colorimetric analysis showed increased K/S values and more uniform coloration with higher CNC concentrations. The CNC treatment improved UV-blocking capabilities, with the 6% CNC-treated fabric attaining an Excellent UPF rating. Biodegradability assessments indicated reduced COD and BOD₅ levels and a higher biodegradability index in residual dye solutions. This innovative CNC-assisted natural dyeing approach promotes sustainable textile processing by improving functional properties while mitigating environmental impact.

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  Cite this article

[IEEE Style]

R. Samarawickrama, H. Memon, S. Wijayapala, A. N. Fernando, G. P. Bandara, S. Mendis, "Sustainable Dyeing of Cotton Fabric Using Aqueous Extracts of Artocarpus heterophyllus Sawdust Waste with Different Concentrations of Cellulose Nanocrystals (CNCs): A Novel Application of Nanotechnology," Fibers and Polymers, vol. 27, no. 4, pp. 1831-1846, 2026. DOI: 10.1007/s12221-026-01342-7.

[ACM Style]

Rumesh Samarawickrama, Hafeezullah Memon, Samudrika Wijayapala, Annesly Nandana Fernando, Geeshan Pasindu Bandara, and Sachindra Mendis. 2026. Sustainable Dyeing of Cotton Fabric Using Aqueous Extracts of Artocarpus heterophyllus Sawdust Waste with Different Concentrations of Cellulose Nanocrystals (CNCs): A Novel Application of Nanotechnology. Fibers and Polymers, 27, 4, (2026), 1831-1846. DOI: 10.1007/s12221-026-01342-7.