Simultaneous Dyeing and Ultraviolet Protection of Wool Fabric with Pomegranate Rind Using TiO₂ Nanoparticles

The effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on the dyeing of wool fabric with pomegranate rind was investigated. The TiO2 nanoparticles were prepared by the solgel method. Various concentrations of the nanoparticles were added during the dyeing of wool with pomegranate. The dyed fabrics were analyzed for physico-mechanical properties, color values, and Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). The presence of nanoparticles on the fiber surface was confirmed by SEM, EDX, and FTIR analysis. The phytochemical analysis of aqueous pomegranate rind showed the presence of saponins, phenols, tannins, glycoside, flavonoids, and terpenoids. The particle size analysis results inferred that the solgel synthesis produced TiO2 nanoparticles of around 200 nm size. After dyeing, the color intensity and UPF of the dyed fabric increased along with the concentration of TiO2 nanoparticles. The dyeing process did not cause any significant reduction in the strength properties of the wool fabric. The rubbing and washing fastness properties of the dyed fabric were found to be good.