Inventions Geneva

48th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva (2023) - Gold Medal

2023-04-29
Awarded Project: Mordant-free Natural Dyeing of Cotton Fabric

The International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva is the world’s largest annual event devoted exclusively to inventions and the licensing market. 

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This invention aims to develop a new mordant-free natural dyeing method for cotton fabric with the use of surface functionalisation of fabrics by Metal-Organic Framework (MOF). It enhances colour uptake of natural dye on fabric, promoting the use of natural dye.

Textile production a source of global clean water pollution from dyeing and finishing products. Synthetic dyes have been commonly used but its production and waste treatment processes have created environmental hazards. In particular, many nations have restricted the use of various azo-dyes. Meanwhile, natural dyes are sustainable and biodegradable but they have poor affinities with fibres and fabrics. Mordants can enhance dye uptake but the use of harmful heavy metal mordants leads to water pollution.