Walnut Hull Powder

Walnut Hull Powder, derived from the hulls of black walnut (Juglans nigra), is a premium brown dye source valued for its deep, rich color and high tannin content. This natural dye offers unique qualities that make it ideal for textile applications and historical uses, including hair dyeing, ink production, and natural fiber dyeing. Alfa Chemistry provides finely milled Walnut Hull Powder, carefully sourced to retain its full potency and achieve reliable, lasting color.

Product Details and Packaging

Composition and Pigment Profile

Black walnut hulls are densely packed with tannins, juglone, and a blend of other pigments, which collectively contribute to the powder's dark brown hue. Juglone, the primary active pigment in walnut hulls, undergoes oxidation when exposed to air, producing a darker shade over time. The hulls' high tannin content makes walnut powder a substantive dye, allowing it to bond directly to natural fibers without requiring a mordant, a unique characteristic among natural dyes. However, additives such as alum may be used to achieve tonal variations, offering more versatility in application.

Application Methodology for Optimal Dyeing Results

Achieving the best results with Walnut Hull Powder requires a straightforward yet precise process to maximize dye strength and color fastness. Begin by simmering 50 grams of walnut powder in water for approximately two hours. During this period, the dye mixture is allowed to oxygenate fully, enhancing its deep brown hue. Once simmered, the solution should cool overnight, allowing the dye bath to strengthen before fibers are introduced. This step ensures that the color will bond more effectively with fibers.

Walnut Hull Powder is suitable for use with a variety of natural fibers, including wool, cotton, and silk, with concentrations varying depending on the desired color intensity:

• Dark Shades: Using 50 grams of powder per 50-250 grams (2-9 ounces) of fiber results in a rich, dark brown tone.
• Lighter Shades: An exhaust bath can be reused to achieve progressively lighter tones on additional fibers, optimizing dye use and achieving a gradient effect.

Unique Benefits of Walnut Hull Powder for Dyeing

As an effective and versatile natural dye, Walnut Hull Powder offers several advantages over synthetic options, providing eco-friendly and sustainable benefits:

• No Mordant Requirement

Unlike many natural dyes, black walnut acts as a substantive dye, bonding strongly to fibers without the need for a mordant. This not only simplifies the dyeing process but also reduces chemical use, benefiting both the user and the environment.

• Longevity and Fastness

The combination of tannins and juglone yields long-lasting colors with excellent wash and light fastness, suitable for durable textile applications.

• Adaptability for Color Variation

While the dye naturally produces a dark brown shade, it also allows for tonal adjustments with alum, providing additional aesthetic flexibility in textile design.

It is important to note that our products are for research use only and are not for clinical use.