The precipitation method is a way to extract pigments from indigo plants. The advantage of this method is that a very intense color can be extracted and the processing takes 2 or 3 days.
The color is released through fermentation in water.
Material
- Indigo leaves 1kg
- Hot water 30-40℃ 10L
- Bucket for 15L
- Slaked lime 10-15g
- PH Meter
PREPARATION
1.Collect 1kg of Indigo leaves.
![](https://www.shiborilab.info/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG_1172-copy-300x300.jpg)
Immerse the leaves in hot water at a temperature of 30-40°C.
Let the leaves steep for 3 days (72 hours) during the summer or 4 days in the autumn season.
![](https://www.shiborilab.info/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG_1148-copy-300x300.jpg)
3. After the designated steeping period, when the leaves have turned green brown, remove them from the water.
![](https://www.shiborilab.info/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG_1161-copy-300x300.jpg)
4. As the leaves steep, the water will turn a bright green color.
![](https://www.shiborilab.info/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/extraction2-1-1024x1024.jpg)
5. After steeping, add slaked lime to the mixture and measure the pH level. Mix the solution thoroughly until the pH reaches approximately 11. Use PH test paper.
![](https://www.shiborilab.info/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG_1200-copy-300x300.jpg)
5. Blend the mixture for approximately half or one hour until the foam turns blue. Continue blending until no more foam appears.
![](https://www.shiborilab.info/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG_1281-copy-300x300.jpg)
6.Allow the mixture to rest overnight. In the morning, carefully remove the upper layer of water. Filter the remaining indigo color.
![](https://www.shiborilab.info/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG_1182copy-300x300.jpg)
7. Your indigo color will be ready for use.
![](https://www.shiborilab.info/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/pestodiindaco2-300x300.jpg)
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