Methoxy and Hydroxy Triphenylamine-Based Azo Dyes: Synthesis and Photophysical Properties on Polyester and Nylon Fabrics

Four novel methoxy- and hydroxy-triphenylamine-based azo dyes were synthesized and applied on polyester and nylon fabrics. Photophysical properties of the dyes were studied in different organic solvents. Lightfastness and sublimation fastness properties were evaluated. Level dyeing with intense red and yellow colors was observed for these dyes on polyester fabric. Comparatively, brighter color and higher color strength ( K/ S) values were observed on polyester fabric than on nylon fabric dyed with these dyes. Good sublimation fastness and moderate lightfastness properties were achieved with all dyes on both fabrics. From net electrophilicity index and calculated energies, the azo tautomer was more stable than the respective hydrazone tautomer in a vacuum.