PARIS – Researchers have grown bacteria that can produce red, yellow, orange and violet pigments, which are being earmarked for use in textile dyeing or digital printing. Previously, scientists have used bacteria to make indigo-coloured pigments for potential use in denim, but new research has revealed that growing certain strains of bacteria on different sugars – and at different temperatures – can give a wider shade range of pigments. It's thought the use of bacteria to produce pigments could significantly improve the environmental profile of the textile dyeing sector.
