Research Article
Manuel JTM
Abstract
Recent resurgence on natural dye production and application is observed due to increasing popularity of more natural lifestyle based on naturally sustainable goods. Natural dyes from flora and fauna are viable alternatives to synthetic dyes. Studies shows that Talisay (Terminalia catappa) leaves are good sources of natural colorant producing green, yellow and black pigments, depending on the freshness of the leaves. To compete with the synthetic dyes, availability and storage stability of the natural colorants are desired. Spray drying technique is used to address such problem; wherein the liquid extract is converted to its powder form. Storage stability of the powdered dye depends on the spray drying condition used during operation. Hence, to optimize spray drying process, understanding the storage characteristic of the powdered natural dye is desired. In this study, the storage characteristic of powdered Talisay leaves, such moisture content and glass transition temperature, were determined using Thermogravimetric Analysis and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), respectively. Effects of varying relative humidity on the EMC were also investigated. Results shows that the moisture content of the powder decreases gradually after 173°C indicating that degradation begins at this temperature. Degradation of the sample was confirm through the identified glass transition temperature of 155°C; which is very close to the degradation temperature. In addition, it was also identified that EMC increases as the relative humidity increases. However, results also signify that spray dried Talisay leaves are stable at room temperature even at varying relative humidity.