Regenerated cellulose fibers spun-dyed with carbon black/latex composite dispersion

A carbon black (CB)/latex composite was prepared by the method of miniemulsion polymerization for use as a colorant for spun dyeing of regenerated cellulose fibers. Analysis of experimental results revealed that the CB/latex composite had a small particle size and a narrow particle size distribution which were important to ensure a stable dispersion being later added to spinning solution. A good stability of the prepared CB/latex composite dispersion in the spinning solution indicated that it was highly possible to use the CB/latex composite as a colorant for spun dyeing of regenerated cellulose fibers. When a 3.5% mass ratio of CB/latex composite to cellulose was used for spun dyeing, the spun-dyed fibers had the highest tensile strength, breaking elongation and color strength. The rubbing and washing color fastnesses of spun-dyed regenerated cellulose fibers could satisfy requirements of most textiles. This study provided a new insight into producing spun-dyed regenerated cellulose with a novel colorant.