Pages 161–164
Abstract
Research summary supplied by the authors
Chrome tanning is the most widely used method for converting raw hides into durable leather. One of the primary difficulties arises in chrome tanning process is oxidation of Cr(III) into the more toxic Cr(VI) form. This creates both environmental and occupational health concerns. The present study explores a hybrid tanning approach of Al(III)-phloroglucinol complex (PHO- AL) with vegetable tannin (GS powder) to achieve enhanced hydrothermal stability, durability, and resistance to environmental degradation as an alternative approach to Chrome tanning. Vegetable tannin reinforces crosslinking through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions while phenolic ligand phloroglucinol enables chelation with Al³z , improving its affinity toward carboxyl and amine groups in collagen. FT-IR and MALDI-TOF characterisation techniques confirm the formation of PHO-AL. Hydrothermal shrinkage (Ts) temperature of the hybrid (PHO-AL & GS Powder) tanned leather is 79oC. Morphology of the collagen crosslinking has been analysed through FE-SEM. Further, Physical strength and Organoleptic properties of the tanned leathers are comparable to the commercial leathers. The combined tanning strategy demonstrates an ecofriendly, chromium-free pathway capable of delivering leathers with superior performance and sustainability. This work highlights the potential of integrated inorganic–organic tanning technologies as an alternative to Chrome tanning process.