Understanding and Altering the Dye Chemistry of Genipin

With limited global resources, it is important to develop sustainable, greener chemistry. One approach to addressing this problem is to utilize chemical feedstocks from naturally occurring sources, such as plants. This project focuses on the development of sustainable dyes, as synthetic versions have recently begun to fall out of favour globally, whether the reasons for this are real or perceived. Genipin, is a naturally occurring molecule found in Central American fruit. It is a well known dye-precursor, having the ability to generate brilliant blue dyes. This project will investigate how minor synthetic modifications to the structure of genipin will affect its dye properties. The active ingredient in Inkbox tattoos is derived from natural sources. Studying the effects of minor modifications to it will produce new colours and products for the company as they continue to grow.

Faculty Supervisor:

Christopher Caputo

Student:

Partner:

Inkbox Ink Inc

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services; Retail trade

University:

York University

Program: