Silver Nanoparticle-Based Finishing for Leather Antimicrobial and UV Protection.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Leather Technology

Background:

• Traditional leather finishing agents often lack advanced functionalities.
• Developing novel finishing agents with enhanced properties is crucial for high-performance leather products.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize functionalized silver nanoparticle-based (Ag-F NPs) finishing agents for leather.
• To evaluate the impact of Ag-F NPs on leather's antibacterial, UV resistance, and mechanical properties.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and citric acid functionalization of silver nanoparticles (Ag-F NPs).
• Incorporation of Ag-F NPs into polyurethane and nitroemulsion finishing formulations.
• Application of finishes to ovine and bovine leather via spray coating.
• Characterization using SEM, TEM, XRD, TGA, and FT-IR.
• Assessment of antibacterial activity, UV resistance, and abrasion resistance.

Main Results:

• Successfully synthesized and characterized stable, well-dispersed Ag-F NPs.
• Treated leather showed up to 90% reduction in microbial growth after 72 hours.
• Enhanced UV resistance with 30% less color change (∆E) compared to controls.
• Improved abrasion and micro-scratch resistance, with stable friction coefficients.

Conclusions:

• Ag-F NPs act as effective multifunctional finishing agents for leather.
• The enhanced properties make Ag-F NPs suitable for automotive, footwear, and leather goods industries.
• This technology offers a pathway to advanced, durable, and functional leather materials.