Microbial Dyes for Textiles: Advances, Challenges, and Sustainable Paths - A Review

Abstract

The application of synthetic dyes by the global textile industry, which are well known to be non-environmentally friendly andnon-biodegradable, has triggered the search for effective sustainable alternatives. Microbial dyes isolated from themicrobes such as bacteria, fungi, yeasts, and algae are an effective green substitute for synthetic dyes. Microbial pigmentsare renewable and biodegradable and contain functional properties like antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial action andUV protection for fabrics. This comprehensive review considers the recent developments in microbial pigment production,with focus on progress in fermentation methods, the application of crop wastes as green substrates, and the contribution ofgenetic engineering in optimizing the pigment production. The work delves deeply into dyeing processes for use on differenttextile substrates like cellulose, protein and synthetic, materials with an emphasis on the significance of green mordants andnew dyeing technologies which are used to improve the colour fastness. It also discusses the major challenges that arelimiting commercialization of microbial pigments, for example, poor pigment yield, extraction difficulties, and regulatoryissues. This review gives a summary overview of microbial dyes as a promising and innovative approach to sustainabletextile dyeing by assessing the environmental concerns, techno-economic feasibility, and opportunities in intelligenttextiles.