Abstract

Microbial activity on leather during its storage and use is one of major problems in the leather industry. Micro-organisms cause damage which costs millions of dollars to the global leather industry. Hide and skin suppliers and tanners are aware of the necessity to use antimicrobial products to protect their precious raw material. The control of bacteria and fungi growth is important to prevent and minimize the generation of mal-odours and some skin problems as well. Recently, the leather industry has been exploring the benefits of remarkable properties of nanoparticles with antimicrobial properties. In this review, antimicrobial effects of nano silver, nano silver-doped titanium dioxide and silicon dioxide, nano-size silicon dioxide and zirconium oxide on leather material are presented.