Preparation of thymol-based natural deep eutectic solvent and its application in improving dyeing properties of polylactic acid fabrics

Increasing protection awareness and the promotion of green chemistry principles have led to the development of new and environmentally friendly chemical materials and processes. In this work, we prepared NaDES, and its practical applicability for treating PLA fibers was investigated. We explored the changes in physical properties with temperature by analyzing the density, pH, viscosity, conductivity of the prepared NaDES. Additionally, the functional groups changes of the prepared NaDES by FTIR analysis proved that NaDES were formed by hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces. The interaction energy of NaDES was determined through quantum calculations. Furthermore, NaDES was used to treat PLA fabrics. The results showed that the surface morphology of PLA fiber could be influenced, thereby improving the dyeing characteristics of PLA fabric. The results provide a basis for studying and applying the physicochemical properties of NaDES.