Innovative Salt-Free Reactive Dyeing of Cotton Using Cationization with <i>Vicia Faba</i> Bean Pod Waste

This study explores the cationization of cotton fabric using an extract from faba bean husk waste to enable salt-free reactive dyeing. By leveraging natural compounds in the husk, the process enhances dye uptake and fixation, eliminating the need for conventional salt additives. Optimized extraction conditions (7.5% HCl, 24-hour treatment, and 1 : 20 material-to-liquor ratio) achieved a 90% dye exhaustion rate and a fixation rate of 51.74%. The cationized fabric exhibited superior color strength (K/S value: 1.5291) compared to conventionally dyed fabric (1.3043). Colorfastness to washing, rubbing, and light was comparable to traditional methods, with minimal changes in mechanical properties. This approach demonstrates the potential of faba bean husk as a sustainable cationizing agent, promoting eco-friendly textile dyeing while utilizing agricultural byproducts. The study contributes to reducing environmental hazards and advancing salt-free dyeing technologies.