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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
16:33
Methods for Facilitating Microbial Growth on Pulp Mill Waste Streams and Characterization of the Biodegradation Potential of Cultured Microbes
Published on: December 12, 2013
Value added eco-friendly products from tannery solid wastes
T P Sastry1, R K Sehgal, T Ramasami
1Central Leather Research Institute, Adyar, Chennai, India.
Journal of Environmental Science & Engineering
|October 21, 2006
Summary
Chrome shavings, a toxic tanning industry waste, can be repurposed into valuable parchment-like membranes and leather-like materials, reducing environmental pollution and creating new products.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Environmental Science
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Chrome shavings are a significant solid waste in the tanning industry.
- Chromium's toxicity poses environmental disposal challenges.
- Current utilization in leather boards is incomplete and low-value.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop alternative, higher-value uses for chrome shavings.
- To mitigate environmental pollution from tanning industry waste.
- To create value-added products from chrome shavings.
Main Methods:
- Developed two novel processes for chrome shaving utilization.
- Process 1: Preparation of parchment-like membranes.
- Process 2: Development of leather-like materials.
- Analyzed mechanical and physicochemical properties of the new products.
Main Results:
- Successfully created parchment-like membranes and leather-like materials.
- Parchment membranes suitable for decorative items (lampshades, wall hangers).
- Leather-like materials applicable to footwear and accessories (chappal uppers, handbags).
Conclusions:
- The developed processes offer a viable solution for chrome shaving disposal.
- These methods reduce environmental pollution and generate value-added products.
- New applications for tanning industry waste enhance resource utilization.
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