Dye

A dye can generally be described as a coloured substance that has an affinity to the substrate to which it is being applied. The dye is usually used as an aqueous solution, and may require a mordant to improve the fastness of the dye on the fibre. In contrast, a pigment generally has no affinity for the substrate, and is insoluble.

Related Topics:
Colour - Affinity - Substrate - Aqueous solution - Mordant - Pigment

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Archaeological evidence shows that, particularly in India and the Middle East, dyeing has been carried out for over 5000 years. The dyes were obtained from either animal, vegetable or mineral origin, with no or very little processing. By far the greatest source of dyes has been from the plant kingdom, notably roots, berries, bark, leaves and wood, but only a few have ever been used on a commercial scale.

Related Topics:
Archaeological - India - Middle East - Animal - Vegetable - Mineral - Plant kingdom - Root - Berries - Bark - Leaves - Wood

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