Abstract

In this work, Piraíba and Dourada skin wastes were used for leather processing. They were initially stripped and characterized by their percentage composition. The results showed that pH, differential pH cipher [SLC13/ IUC 11/ BS 1309:9 – Determination of pH value and Difference Figure of an Aqueous Extract], chromium content and mechanical properties after chromium tanning were in accord with leather specifications. Further results demonstrate that the tensile and tear strength of the leather varied depending on the direction of the collagen fibres. Microscopic analysis allowed us to verify that the fibre structure is interlaced and compact. This work also determined that the shrinkage temperatures, as measured by DSC were 98.24 and 104.06°C for Dourada and Piraíba leather, respectively. In conclusion, the characterization demonstrated the feasibility of using waste skins of Piraíba and Dourada for leather processing, adding value to a sub-product of fish processing.