Woolmark's Super-Dark Merino process combines increased reactive-dye uptake with a polymer that reduces reflected light. The approach changes both how much colour enters the fibre and how the finished surface returns light to the viewer. Dark navy and black are the intended visual applications.

Deep Black Appearance Depends on Reflected Light as Well as Dye

The example shows that apparent shade depth cannot be understood only as a quantity of dye. Fibre preparation and surface optics also contribute. When evaluating a dark cloth, colour intensity, rubbing fastness and handle remain separate properties, even where one finishing system affects several of them together.