Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticle Color Range as a Potential Colorant in Textile Materials

Abstract

Coloration of textile materials is achieved using a wide variety of synthetic and natural dyes and pigments with desired fastness. However, colorfastness is adversely affected by several factors, including exposure to UV light, repeated washing, and surface abrasion from wearing. Hence, the overall quality of the fabrics and textiles will be affected. A novel approach in textile coloration can be achieved using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), since AgNPs are stable upon UV exposure. AgNPs of different sizes and shapes exhibit different colors due to the surface plasmon resonance effect. Herein, we describe a simple, rapid, and green method to synthesize AgNPs with range of colors using the same precursors. AgNPs were synthesized by using fresh-squeezed lime juice in the presence of solar irradiation. Lime juice acts as both a reducing and stabilizing agent. Different colored AgNPs were formed by changing the concentrations or volume ratios of Ag+ ions, lime juice, and pH values. AgNP formation was confirmed by characteristic UVVis spectra. A color range of yellow, brown, gray, maroon, and malachite green was synthesized, and poplin yarn was colored. Instead of chemical binders, the possibility of using vinegar and lime was studied. The washability and UV stability of the colored yarns were studied. The color did not fade even after 10 washing cycles. In the absence of any binder or stabilizer on the fabric surface, initial color did not fade during the washing with deionized water. However, a different color was observed after exposing to sunlight for three weeks. A dark color was observed for vinegar-treated fabric. The method reported herein provides a simple, rapid, and eco-friendly approach to obtain a range of colors using the same precursors which can be used in the coloration of textile materials with a suitable binding agent.