The conventional dyeing of textiles requires that an excess of dye is dissolved or in some way "taken-up" in an aqueous or solvent solution. The dye mix is then pumped into a vat containing holding the textile. Typically there is agitation or the dye is recirculated several times through the cloth. At the end of the cycle, the dye mix is pumped to the waste treatment facility. Dyes are notoriously difficult to treat. The process is decidedly unfriendly to the environment.

The use of supercritical CO₂ in textile dyeing is an environmentally friendly, sustainable alternative. Instead of using an aqueous or solvent solution to "take-up" the dye, supercritical CO₂ is used. The process proceeds in the same manner as the conventional method, but instead of sending the spent mix to the waste treatment facility, the supercritical CO₂ /dye mix is depressurized. The CO₂ changes to a gas and all the spent dye falls out and can be reused. In production systems, the CO₂ is recycled for providing for a completely closed system and an entirely environmentally friendly approach to textile dyeing.

Our Process for dyeing polyester offers the following advantages versus conventional dyeing in water
• CO₂ replaces water as the dye solvent
• Saves energy
• Uses fewer chemicals
• Generates practically no waste streams
• Carbon dioxide is recycled and not vented
• Reduces the number of process steps
• Simplifies dyeing chemistry
• Reduces plant footprint
• Flexibility in site location

Additional technology to support your dyeing operations:
• 60 - 90-minute dyeing cycle depending on the color
• Selection of disperse dyes that work well in our process. Create a palette of colors with these dyes.
• Color database for your use
• Use color match capability
• Dyed polyester meets AATCC tests