Studies on approaches for sustainable leather manufacturing through cleaner process methodologies

Abstract

Despite advances in process technologies and treatment systems, presence of chlorides and chromium in the tannery effluent often raise environmental concerns. The present work aims at replacing common salt in preservation of skins and chromium in tanning. Various preservation and tanning methods attempted so far differ substantially with regard to quality and economic factors which adversely impact their adoption at industrial levels. In the present research work, a combination of sparingly soluble alkali and water soluble polymer of ethylene oxide has been utilised to preserve skins. A comprehensive study has been made on various parameters, such as dehydration and rehydration behaviors, microbial growth, emission loads and physico-chemical characteristics of the leathers processed from newlinesuch cured skin to validate the salt free preservation system developed. Results of effluent pollution parameters indicate the possibility of more than 80% reduction in total dissolved solids apart from chloride elimination with the new approach. Since the new preservation technique does not demand any sophisticated instrument or new skill, there lies a great potential for the system to emerge as a viable alternative to the conventional salt based preservation system. newline newline newline