Radio-frequency-assisted Fixation of Reactive Dyes by Pad-batch Application

This study was undertaken in an effort to use radio-frequency energy to improve the level of fixation of reactive dyes on cotton in pad-batch dyeing. The successful application of statistical experimental design strategies for the development and optimisation of a new dye application method is described. Key process variables were identified and optimised to maximise dye fixation. Heating of the batch with radio-frequency energy during the batching stage greatly accelerated the rate of fixation. Fixation levels achieved using optimised radio-frequency-assisted methods were approximately equivalent to those achieved in conventional pad-batch dyeing