Development of Aluminum-melamine Formulations for Retanning Application

Abstract

The process of preparation of a large number of syntans is based on enhancement of the molecular weight of low molecular weight aromatic/aliphatic monomers etc., through addition polymerization and condensation reactions. The disadvantage associated with condensation process is the use of formaldehyde, which is a proven carcinogen. In addition, one of the major drawbacks with chrome tanning, the lack of fullness, is addressed during post tanning processes by employing synthetic tanning agents. With these issues in focus, formaldehyde free aluminum based melamine syntan has been prepared having particle size distribution in the range of 450-700 nm and stable up to pH 4.5. The prepared syntan has been used as retanning agent in leather processing. The experimental leather exhibits superior organoleptic properties such as fullness, grain tightness, and physical strength characteristics such as tensile, tear strength compared to control leather. Also, experimental leather exhibits higher dye intensity compared to control leather. It is evident from the air permeability and pore size distribution analysis that the prepared product has significantly arrested the pores thereby increasing the fullness of leather. Scanning electron microscopic image shows that the experimental leathers have a flat and compact fiber structure.