Extraction of Natural Dye
Aqueous extraction of colorant from fresh henna leaves
Overview
A coursework aqueous extraction of henna leaves. A filtered dye solution was obtained; the chemical composition of the extract was not measured.
Problem Statement
Explore whether a simple aqueous procedure can produce a filtered dye solution from henna leaves.
Objective
Obtain an aqueous henna-leaf extract for a coursework exercise.
Methodology
Clean and crush fresh henna leaves, combine with distilled water at a fixed material-to-liquor ratio, extract under heat with stirring, then filter to obtain a clear dye solution.
Materials
Fresh green henna (Lawsonia inermis) leaves, distilled water, hot plate, thermometer, stirrer, muslin cloth/filter paper, filter funnel, conical flask.
Experimental Design
10 g of crushed henna leaves extracted in distilled water at a 1:10 material-to-liquor ratio, heated at 90°C for 60 minutes with occasional stirring, then cooled and filtered.
Results & Observations
A filtered aqueous henna-leaf extract was obtained. No chemical composition or dye concentration was measured.
Conclusion
The procedure produced a dye solution for the coursework exercise; its composition and performance on fabric remain untested.
Future Work
Apply the extracted dye to fabric to evaluate its dyeing performance and colour fastness and test whether concentrating the extract improves shade depth.