The classification of metal complex dyes is dyes is based on the basis of number of dye molecules which are complexed with one metal ion

　　1:1 metal complex dyes:In 1:1 metal complex dyes one metal ion is complexed with one dye molecule.

　　1:2 metal complex dyes:In 1:2 metal complex dyes there are two dye molecules which are complexed with one metal atom.

　　Features of Metal Complex Dyes

　　Medium washing fastness.

　　Excellent,light-fastness.

　　Shows very good level dyeing and penetration characteristics.

　　Can cover up for the irregularities in the substrates.

　　Application of Metal Complex Dyes

　　Metal Complex Solvent Dyes is using for a variety of applications like wood stains,leather finishing,stationery printing inks,inks,coloring for metals,plastic etc.As this dye is classified into two categories and both have different applications.

　　1:1 metal complex dyes

　　These dyes have good leveling and penetration properties and are particularly suitable for application on carbonized wool.These dyes are applied under a strongly acidic bath at a pH of 1.8–2.5 with sulfuric acid or at a pH of 3-4 with formic acid,therefore these are not suitable for the blends having cotton component.Glauber salt is used as exhausting agent and organic leveling agents are used to

　　1:2 metal complex dyes

　　These dyes are subdivided into two subgroups based on the solubilising groups present in the dye molecule,these dyes shows moderate migration properties on nylon but very good overall fastness properties,because metal complex dyes not only attach to nylon with ionic linkages,but also with coordinate bonds.The two subgroups are:

　　Weakly polar dyes

　　Strongly polar dyes