When was the oldest known fabric dyed indigo created?
The oldest known fabric dyed indigo dates to 6,000 years ago. Archaeologists discovered this artifact in Huaca Prieta, Peru.
Questions about Indigo dye
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What is the chemical formula for indigo dye?
The chemical formula C16H10N2O2 defines the molecule. It sublimes at 391 degrees Celsius and absorbs light at 613 nanometers in the orange spectrum.
Who developed the first industrial mass production method for synthetic indigo?
Johannes Pfleger developed an industrial mass production method by 1901. BASF developed a commercially feasible manufacturing process that was in use by 1897.
How much synthetic indigo is produced each year as of 2023?
Around 80,000 tonnes of synthetic indigo are produced each year as of 2023. Most production supports denim cloth manufacturing for blue jeans.
Which plant species provided the primary commercial variety of natural indigo?
The primary commercial variety was true indigo scientifically named Indigofera tinctoria. It grew extensively across the Indian Subcontinent.