Effect of Microwave Irradiation on Coloring and Mechanical Properties of Direct Dyed Fabric

Abstract

Microwaves have a very short wavelength which allows them to pass through the small spaces between molecules without being scattered. This allows the microwaves to penetrate the matter and heat it from the inside out, providing uniform heat, and makes microwave technology ideal for applications that require rapid and consistent heating. It has been hypothesized that microwaves may have a positive effect on the shade depth and color fastness of the fabric due to the increased temperature. This research is being done to test this hypothesis and to study the effects of microwaves on the shade depth and color fastness properties of the fabric. Microwave-irradiated fabric dyed before and after dyeing has a greater shade depth and better fastness properties than fabric dyed without irradiation.