## 1 Introduction  
In the context of the artisanal textile industry in Peru, sheep wool constitutes a fundamental raw material, particularly in regions such as Cusco, Ayacucho, and Puno. This ancestral practice holds significant cultural value and drives the local economy through the production of meat and fiber. Wool, which comprises a complex protein known as keratin, is valued for its softness, thermal-insulation properties, and durability [1]. Traditionally, wool has been dyed with natural colorants, among which the dye obtained from _Dactylopius coccus_, commonly known as cochineal, is prominent. Its primary component, carminic acid,provides an intense red color [2]. However, the natural dyeing process presents challenges because of the low affinity between the fiber and dye, necessitating the use of metallic mordants to enhance adherence [3]. Various mordants such as alum (KAl(SO4)2\(\cdot\)12H2O) are essential for fixing natural dyes. These mordants can alter the intensity and shade of the color; for instance, iron sulfate produces darker tones, whereas sodium carbonate produces brighter tones [4,5]. Although effective, these mordants have adverse impacts on the environment and human health [6,7]. In this context, it is necessary to identify sustainable alternatives to mitigate these impacts. The atmospheric-pressure plasma jet (APPJ) technique presents a viable alternative to conventional methods in the textile industry, circumventing the utilization of mordants and chemical dyes that generate toxic waste. The application of an APPJ in textile dyeing is feasible because of its capacity to enhance dye absorption in the fibers, resulting in more intense and uniform colorization. This sustainable method significantly reduces the consumption of chemicals and water, thereby minimizing environmental impact. Moreover, the APPJ facilitates enhanced dye penetration and color durability, offering an environmentally benign and efficient alternative to traditional dyeing methods [8]. The APPJ modifies the properties of fibers and _Dactylopiusoccus_ dye without compromising material integrity, improving both color intensity and uniformity in wool [9]. This technique is characterized by its dye-penetration capability, color durability, and sustainability. Furthermore, the APPJ has emerged as an innovative solution, yielding outcomes comparable to those of traditional mordants, but without their associated toxicity [10]. This study investigated the influence of APPJ application during the dyeing of wool with _Dactylopiusoccus_ dye by evaluating its effects on the medullulation properties, textile characteristics, and colorimetric parameters. The significance of this research lies in its potential to implement more sustainable practices in the artisanal textile industry, aligning with global trends towards sustainability and environmental responsibility [9,10]. In the field of wool dyeing research, the utilization of the atmospheric-pressure plasma jet (APPJ) represents an emerging and promising technique. Numerous studies have elucidated the benefits and mechanisms of this technology. [PERSON] et al. [11] demonstrated that plasma treatment and polypropylene imine dendrimers significantly enhanced the dyeing capacity of wool with _Dactylopiusoccus_ dye, increasing the dye's affinity for the fiber. Conversely, [PERSON] et al. [12] found that the discoloration of _Dactylopiusoccus_ dye was caused by reactive species generated by the APPJ through oxidative degradation. Similarly, [PERSON] et al. [13] investigated the impact of nonthermal plasma on the surface morphology, color characteristics, and electrical conductivity of dyed wool and observed significant changes in these properties. Additional studies, such as those conducted by [PERSON] and [PERSON] [14], analyzed the effects of oxygen plasma treatment on wool fibers. Their results indicated that this treatment increased the surface roughness, modified the morphology and chemical structure of the fibers, increased the crystallinity, and improved the dye absorption capacity.