Abstract

A series of disazo disperse dyes were synthesized by the diazotization of 4-phenoxyaniline and coupling reaction of 3-chloroaniline to give an intermediate dye compound. The structure of these disperse dyes were confirmed by 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and infrared spectrometry. The ultraviolet visible absorption spectra of the dyes were measured in dimethylformamide. The maximum absorption wavelength ranged from 440 – 448 nm and some with shoulders in the near infrared region (in dyes 5a and 5c). The disperse dyes were applied to polyester fabrics and the colour fastness properties were investigated. The results show that the hue produced was brown. The wash fastness and rub fastness results were between grade 4 and 5, while perspiration fastness and sublimation fastness were between grades 3/4 and 5 while light fastness was between grades 5/6 and 6. The dyes produced in this study could be useful candidates for the dyeing of hydrophobic fibres.