Abstract

India is endowed with abundant resources for tannin materials. The Indian demand for vegetable tannins (see Table I) has increased multi-fold on account of the increase in demand for Indian leather. Recognizing the immediate need for the modernization of this highly traditional technology, CLRI has undertaken extensive research investigations to develop computer assisted process technology for vegetable tannin extraction employing multistage counter current contact concept. A fullscale pilot plant is set up with the necessary process control facilities for systematic chemical engineering investigations. This paper highlights the basic approaches adopted in the development of the process technology. The effectiveness of the developed process is explained with the help of a typical tannin extraction case study.