Natural dye–surfactant interactions: thermodynamic and surface parameters

The interaction of two Indian natural dyes, namely madder (Rubia cordifolia) and mallow (Punica granatum), with cationic surfactant cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide and anionic surfactant sodium lauryl sulphate, has been studied. Spectrophotometric data showed a strong interaction between the natural dyes and the surfactants. The critical micelle concentration of the surfactants, determined by measurement of specific conductance and surface tension, was found to decrease on the addition of natural dyes in an aqueous solution of surfactants. The thermodynamic and surface parameters for the interaction have been evaluated.