Investigation of optimal conditions needed for the production of indigo and subsequent dyeing using CO₂/O₂ sensors and a cellphone camera

Abstract: An investigation of the process involved in the production of and dyeing with indigo based on a CO₂/O₂ sensor device and a cellphone-camera is reported. The former involves transforming indican to indigo, and the latter the process by which indigo and indigo-white are produced. During the process of indigo production, a clear and positive correlation can be observed between the concentration of gas levels (either the production of CO₂ or the consumption of O₂) and the final yield. The authors found that for the first time that the change in the concentration levels of CO₂/O₂ can be used as important parameters for indigo dyeing. The optimal time required to produce indigo can be decided by the change of CO₂/O₂ concentration level. It is no long should depending on the experience of a craftsperson. Furthermore, the optimal time needed to produce indigo also can be decided by the concentration levels of glucose. The color analysis of indigo dyeing can be performed by using a camera and by calculating the RGB and HSV (hue, saturation, value) values. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]