Investigation of antimicrobial and dyeing properties of woollen and cotton fabrics using mint (Mentha spicata L.) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) leaves extracts

In this study, the usability and antimicrobial properties of extracts obtained from mint (Mentha spicata L.) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) plants were examined. Cotton and woolen fabrics were used in the dyeing process. CuSO4, FeSO4 and AlK(SO4)2 mordants were used as stabilizers and color changers. Dyeing was carried out using pre-, co-, post-mordant and non-mordant dyeing methods. Fastness analyzes were performed according to international standards (TS EN ISO 105 CO6). Color codes were made with the help of Pantone color guide atlas, CIE-L*a*b* and K/S values were made with the help of Premier Colorsan SS 6200A spectrophotometer. In the dyeings performed, dyeings with generally high fastness values were obtained. Antimicrobial tests of the dyed fabrics were carried out by the disk diffusion method. Of the three mordants we used, only the antimicrobial tests gave positive results in the dyeings using CuSO4 mordant. Since the textile fabrics produced according to these procedures have antimicrobial properties, it is thought that their use in health centers (hospitals, health centers, clinics) will make a positive contribution to hygiene. It was understood that the extract obtained from mint (Mentha spicata L.) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) plants is an effective source of natural dyes in dyeing woolen and cotton fabrics.