Corantes naturais na indústria têxtil no Brasil: uma revisão de literatura

Abstract

The textile industry generates large volumes of potentially toxic effluent annually, largely due to the use of synthetic dyes that harm the environment. As the sector grows, environmental concerns have become a serious issue for the present day and for future generations. One alternative is the use of natural dyes; according to market data (projected to 2026), this sector already generates nearly 5 million dollars in annual revenue worldwide. Given this environmental and economic significance, this study aimed to review the literature on the use of natural dyes in the Brazilian textile industry over the last 15 years (2010–2025). Furthermore, the study sought to identify the pros and cons of using these materials, survey potential natural sources and methods of extraction and application, and encourage the use of environmentally friendly textile dyes. A bibliographic survey was conducted using two platforms: CAPES Periodicals and SciELO. The identified studies were divided into two groups to facilitate analysis and data collection: Group 1 (articles describing the experimentation or application of specific natural dyes) and Group 2 (review articles). The review reveals that, although the natural dye market represents significant global economic value and holds great environmental importance, it remains underutilized on a large scale in Brazil. It was observed that Brazil produces relatively little scientific research on natural dyes in the textile industry compared to international studies. Nevertheless, the study identified several potentially promising sources of natural dyes in Brazil—such as cashew bagasse, turmeric, barbatimao, hibiscus, jatoba, yerba mate, and annatto—and noted that limitations regarding the use of toxic mordants (substances that aid dye fixation) can be overcome, potentially reducing environmental impacts. The articles also identified various processing and instrumentation methods for obtaining and applying natural dyes in the textile industry. Thus, it is concluded that, despite numerous studies and publications on the use of natural dyes, Brazil should further explore its potential as a producer of natural dyes, and that environmental benefits need to be more highly valued to encourage their wider use. More than just a return to ancestral practices, the use of natural dyes can contribute to an environmentally healthier future.