Textile printing is a crucial aspect of the industry that allows for intricate designs and functional finishes on fabrics. Traditionally, synthetic binders and thickeners have been used in pigment printing systems to achieve vibrant colors and long-lasting durability. However, these conventional materials pose significant environmental challenges, such as being difficult to break down and contributing to air and water pollution.
With a growing global emphasis on sustainability and eco-efficiency, there is a rising interest in replacing synthetic auxiliaries with bio-based alternatives. Natural polymers like starch, guar gum, sodium alginate, and chitosan are gaining popularity in the textile industry due to their safety, biodegradability, and accessibility. Sodium alginate, extracted from brown seaweed, is a commonly used thickener in textile printing for its excellent film-forming properties and solubility.
On the other hand, gelatin, derived from collagen, has been less explored in pigment printing despite its ability to gel and form films. However, recent research has highlighted the potential of bio-based thickeners to impart multiple functionalities to textiles. In a study investigating gelatin and sodium alginate as novel thickening agents for pigment textile printing, promising results were obtained.
The study examined the performance of gelatin as a thickener and binder in various ratios with sodium alginate. It was observed that the shear rate had a significant impact on the shear stress and viscosity of gelatin gel-based thickeners. Additionally, the elasticity and performance of gelatin-based thickening agents when thinned were evaluated. The incorporation of sodium alginate was found to increase the apparent viscosity compared to gelatin gel alone, with a 50:50 gelatin-alginate thickener ratio yielding optimal printing paste viscosity.
Furthermore, the samples treated with a combination of gelatin and sodium alginate exhibited the highest color depth, as indicated by the K/S values, while those without gelatin showed lower values. The printed fabrics were also subjected to tests for light, washing, sweat, and rubbing fastness, with fabrics using pigment and gelatin/alginate thickener showing enhanced color depth and fastness properties.
Moreover, the antibacterial activity of gelatin-based thickened printed fabrics against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans was assessed after 15 days at ambient temperature. The results indicated potential antimicrobial properties in gelatin-based thickeners, highlighting their added functionality in textile printing.
In conclusion, the exploration of eco-friendly alternatives like gelatin and sodium alginate in pigment textile printing showcases the industry's shift towards sustainable practices. By utilizing natural polymers and bio-based materials, manufacturers can reduce their environmental impact while maintaining high-quality standards in textile production. As the demand for eco-friendly solutions continues to grow, the integration of novel thickeners and binders in textile printing offers a promising avenue for innovation and sustainability in the industry.