
Plant
– Seaweed
— Seaweed-Based Dyes
Database
Material Connexion
MC 7070-01
Manufacturer
IMAGINE GreenWear
Virginia, USA
Seaweed-based proprietary dyeing process as an alternative to traditional plastisol or water-based inks. The dye is non-toxic compared to plastisol ink, which currently uses large amounts of toxic chemicals and dyes, contains PVCs, phthalates or other plasticizers, requires a solvent solution for cleaning and uses heat to fuse the color to the material. The seaweed-based dyes use little energy, have high absorption rates resulting in minimal color runoffs, contain no heavy metals, and leave no toxic residue on material. Graphics and illustrations are dyed directly into the apparel so that the dyes penetrate and bond to the fabric, preventing ‘grin through’ (where the ink seeps through to the other side of the fabric) or crocking. The dye color makes a permanent bond to cotton fibers: unlike inks, the color particle is not fused or glued on the material. The dye is mixed into a base of organic seaweed and water. There is no limit of dye capacity. The dye color is available in various colors. Color and print customization is offered by manufacturer. The manufacturer is in the process of receiving the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification. Applications include apparel and accessories.


