Abstract

A new melamine compound, MAE (melamine-ethanolamine) was prepared from melamine, formaldehyde and diethanolamine. MAE’s molecular weight, molecular structure and some other properties including stabilities in solution and functions in leather making were researched. MAE has a star pattern structure and has good stability in water solution but is sensitive to glutaraldehyde and gelatin solution at the high pH value. The research results indicate that MAE has a tanning effect, Ts 78.2°C. Tear strength, thickening rate and SEM images indicate that MAE is a good retanning agent of chrome leather. The synergistic effect of combination tanning of MAE with mimosa extract or glutaraldehyde gave Ts up to 97.5°C or 92.7°C. The Ts of leather tanned or retanned by MAE reduced less after fatliquoring, indicating that MAE can well stabilize leather network structure.