Sustainable gelatine–alginate biopolymer binder enhancing pigment printing and functional performance of textiles

Abstract

Abstract This study investigates gelatine and sodium alginate as novel thickening agents for pigment textile printing using natural eco-friendly binders. As a thickener and binder, gelatine was tested in different ratios to sodium alginate. The study found that shear rate significantly affected gelatine gel-based thickener shear stress and viscosity. The study examined gelatine-based thickening agents’ elasticity and performance when thinned. The study found that adding sodium alginate increases apparent viscosity compared to gelatine gel alone. A 50:50 gelatine-alginate thickener ratio produces optimal printing paste viscosity. The samples with gelatine and sodium alginate had the highest K/S, while those without gelatine had the lowest. The study tested printed fabrics for light, washing, sweat, and rubbing fastness. All printed fabrics with pigment and gelatine/alginate (1:1) thickener had deeper color depth. After 15 days at ambient temperature, gelatine-based thickening printed fabrics were tested for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans.