Spectral and Physical Analysis of Natural Dye Obtained from the Rhizome of Curcuma longa (Turmeric) Plant

This research aims at spectral analysis of natural dye obtained from the rhizome of Curcuma longa (turmeric)plant to evaluate its potential as a sustainable coloring agent. The turmeric root dye was extracted using aSoxhlet apparatus with two solvents, methanol and acetone. The dye extract is dark orange in color, partiallysoluble in both cold and hot water, with a refractive index of 0.94, density of 0.058 g/cm3, pH value of 6.08(slightly acidic), and melting point of 163°C. The dye extract was characterized using UV/Visible analysis,FT-IR, and GCMS. UV-Visible analysis showed a peak at 435 nm, falling in the violet region, confirmingthe dye’s yellow color. FT-IR identified functional groups such as C=O, -OH, and C=C. GCMS revealedar-turmerone as the most abundant compound in the dye extract. The results indicate that the turmeric-derived dye has favorable optical qualities, making it a viable alternative to synthetic dyes in eco-friendlytextile applications. This study supports the growing interest in natural dyes for sustainable development inthe dyeing industry.