Disperse dye

Disperse dye is a category of synthetic dye intended for polyester and related hydrophobic fibers. Disperse dyes are polar molecules containing anthraquinone or azo groups. It is estimated that 85% of disperse dyes are azos or anthraquinone dyes.

The history of disperse dye production is closely related to the synthesis of cellulose acetate fibres. Disperse dyes were invented in 1923-24.

Disperse dyes are non-ionic in nature and partially soluble in water. The interaction of dye molecule and polymer takes place with Van der Waals and dipole forces. Disperse dyes have better diffusion at boiling to a higher temperature.