Photomodification of the Cell Membrane Complex of Wool – The Effect on Dyeability

Wool fibres have been selectively stained in the region of the cell membrane complex with eosin Y, fluorescein and rose Bengal. Dye distribution patterns were determined by fluorescence microscopy and electron-induced X-ray emission (in conjunction with scanning transmission electron microscopy). Irradiation of the stained fibres with visible light caused a reduction in the rate of dye uptake when the wool was subsequently treated with an aqueous solution of the dye C.I. Acid Red 18. The change in the dyeability of wool was attributed to selective photomodification of the cell membrane complex