WHAT HIDES YOUR CLOTHES

Abstract

It is postulated that inorganic metal elements are more present in imported dyed textile fibers than in textile fibers dyed by an Aymara artisan in the Tarapacá region. It was determined to identify, quantify and evaluate the risks of inorganic metal elements in the dyeing of textile fibers from imported new T-shirts, imported used T-shirts and in textile fibers dyed with dyes extracted from herbs by a craftswoman from the Tarapacá region. The methodology was experimental, using data obtained quantitatively and qualitatively. A high concentration of copper was verified in the dyeing of the textile fibers of imported new and used T-shirts. Textile fibers dyed by a craftswoman contain low concentrations of copper. The three samples of textile fibers stained showed absence of cadmium, lead and arsenic. Copper was part of the cupric hydroxide compound present in the chemical composition of many dyes. The most common inorganic metal element in dyes is copper. Copper, iron and zinc are used as compounds to give different shades and durability to the color. Chile needs laws that regulate the import of dyed textiles to report the presence of chemical elements dangerous to health.