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Progress and recent trends in biotechnological methods for leather processing.
Palanisamy Thanikaivelan1, Jonnalagadda R Rao, Balachandran U Nair
1Centre for Leather Apparels and Accessories Development, Central Leather Research Institute, Adyar, Chennai 600 020, India.
Trends in Biotechnology
|March 25, 2004
Summary
Enzyme-based bioprocesses offer a sustainable solution for leather processing, significantly reducing pollution from pre-tanning and tanning. This approach minimizes hazardous waste and toxic gases like hydrogen sulfide.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Environmental Science
- Materials Science
Background:
- Leather processing generates substantial pollution (80-90%) from pre-tanning and tanning stages.
- Key pollutants include noxious gases (e.g., hydrogen sulfide) and solid wastes (lime, chrome sludge).
- Global environmental regulations are driving the need for cleaner industrial practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging novel biotechnological methods in leather processing.
- To highlight advancements in enzyme-based applications for reduced environmental impact.
- To discuss the development of bioprocesses for de-hairing and fiber-opening.
Main Methods:
- Exploration of enzyme-based products in various leather-making areas.
- Focus on enzymatic de-hairing to replace sodium sulfide.
- Development of bioprocess-based methodologies for de-hairing and fiber-opening.
Main Results:
- Enzymes are increasingly important, particularly in de-hairing, offering an alternative to sodium sulfide.
- Biotechnological methods show promise in reducing toxic waste generation.
- A novel bioprocess for de-hairing and fiber-opening has been developed.
Conclusions:
- Enzyme-based bioprocesses represent a significant advancement in sustainable leather manufacturing.
- These methods effectively reduce toxic waste and hazardous gas emissions.
- Biotechnology offers a viable pathway to meet stringent environmental regulations in the leather industry.