Description
LAC DYE is a natural coloring extract isolated from the resin of Indian lac (Kerria lacca).
This extract is manufactured as a CO-VALORIZATION of the production of shellac.
Main constituents : laccaic acid. This extract is manufactured in India.
Uses :
Natural dye and textile printing : the colours obtained are similar to those resulting from cochineal. However, this extract provides better lightfastness and washfastness especially on silk and wool. Shades from purple to red are obtained according to the conditions of dyeing.
The insect, shellac, lack dye :
The lac insects are bred on various trees in India, in the southeast of Asia, Nepal and in the South of China since millenniums. They produce a resin, harvested on branch pieces named “sticklac”, that contains the red colouring agent also present in larvas and eggs. The resin, known under the name of “shellac” is widely used in cabinetmaking, music intruments making and protection of wooden works. It works as a real natural varnish. Purified shellacs are used in food (E904) and in pharmacy. The colouring agent is isolated from resin to become the ” lac-dye ” more easy to dye than the raw resin (that was formerly used but makes the fibers sticky).
