Question 13 (Textile Engineering & Fibre Science)
The following dye will be suitable for sublimation transfer printing of polyester
| (A) | Reactive dye |
| (B) | Vat dye |
| (C) | Acid dye |
| (D) | Disperse dye |
[Show Answer]
Option D is correct
Frequently Asked Questions | FAQs
What is sublimation transfer printing?
Sublimation transfer printing is a popular method used in the textile industry to apply designs, patterns, or images onto fabrics. It is primarily used on polyester or polyester-blend fabrics, as sublimation dyes work by bonding with the polyester fibers.
The sublimation process involves the use of heat and pressure to transfer the dye onto the fabric. Here’s a step-by-step overview of how sublimation transfer printing works:
Design Preparation: The desired design or image is created digitally using graphic design software. This design can include intricate patterns, vibrant colors, or photographic prints.
Printing onto Transfer Paper: The design is printed onto special sublimation transfer paper using sublimation inks. These inks are specifically formulated to convert from a solid to a gas state when heated, without passing through a liquid phase. This is why the process is called “sublimation.”
Heat Transfer: The printed transfer paper is placed face down onto the fabric, typically a polyester fabric or a polyester-coated substrate. Heat and pressure are applied using a heat press machine. The high temperature causes the sublimation inks to convert into a gas and penetrate the polyester fibers, permanently dyeing the fabric. The pressure ensures good contact between the transfer paper and the fabric for an even transfer.
Cooling and Removal: After the sublimation process, the fabric is allowed to cool down. Once cool, the transfer paper is removed, leaving behind a vibrant, permanent, and durable design on the fabric.
Sublimation transfer printing offers several advantages. The dyes become part of the fabric, resulting in designs that are highly resistant to fading, cracking, or peeling. The process allows for intricate and detailed prints, including gradients, shadows, and photographic images. Additionally, sublimation dyes are typically colorfast, meaning they retain their vibrancy even after multiple washes.
It’s important to note that sublimation transfer printing is best suited for polyester or polyester-blend fabrics, as the dyes do not bond well with natural fibers like cotton or silk. The process requires specialized equipment, including sublimation inks, sublimation transfer paper, and a heat press machine, which are typically found in professional printing setups.