Abstract

The drying profile of leathers was investigated by analysing the dynamic mechanical properties. The elastic bending modulus, indicating the stiffness, was monitored as a function of time during drying of partially processed leather over a wide range of isothermal conditions. Different phases of drying are explained in terms of residual moisture content of leathers. It is concluded that the drying temperature does not contribute to the stiffness, which is actually controlled by the residual moisture content.