pH of Common Acids & Bases/Alkalis

pH is technically a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions in solution, but for practical purposes as dyers we can understand it as the relative acidity or alkalinity of something (in chemistry, an ‘alkali’ and a ‘base’ are the same thing, and you will sometimes see something that is alkaline referred to as basic).

Substances we use in our natural dye practice, including our water source, can influence the pH level of our mordant, modifier, and dye baths, which can have a significant influence on final dye colour, structural integrity of our fibres, and many other things.

Having a good understanding of the pH of the ingredients we use can help us better predict/control results. The following links show the pH value (at a standard concentration) of a range of substances, including many that natural dyers use.

• pH of common bases/alkalis: https://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/bases-ph-d_402.html

• pH of common acids: https://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/acids-ph-d_401.html