<![CDATA[The batik industry faces challenges due to the shift toward synthetic dyes, which negatively impact the environment. While natural dyes derived from Bixa orellana seeds are eco-friendly, they typically exhibit low color strength. This study aimed to enhance natural dye uptake by modifying the surface of cotton fabric using chitosan as a biomordant. Cotton fabrics underwent pre-mordanting with chitosan (at concentrations of 1, 1.5, and 2.5 g/L), followed by dyeing with Bixa orellana extract and fixation with alum. Color strength was analyzed using a spectrophotometer to determine K/S values. Dyeing with Bixa orellana seeds yielded colors ranging from yellow to orange; higher chitosan concentrations resulted in a deeper orange hue. The results showed an increase in color strength from 1.436 (without chitosan treatment) to 4.153 (at a concentration of 2.5 g/L), representing a 188% increase in color intensity. Ionic interactions and hydrogen bonding between the chitosan, fabric, and dye enhanced color affinity. Chitosan proved effective as a biomordant—with an optimal concentration of 2.5 g/L—thereby supporting a more sustainable natural dyeing process in batik production.]]>
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