Abstract

In recent decades many studies have been conducted in order to understand the exact origin of Cr(VI) in leather and find remedies for this problem and it seems that most tanners have resolved this issue in industry. However, in the present study a novel way to avoid Cr(VI) formation in leather by copper mordanting (CuSO4.5H2O) was investigated. 0.5 and 1.0% (w/w) of CuSO4.5H2O were used both standalone and also in combination with vegetable tannins which are commonly used in leather industry. From the results it was seen that both, in standalone, and in combination usage with vegetable tannins, copper seems to be a solution against formation of Cr(VI) in leather and keeping the Cr(VI) values below the permissible limits.