Abstract

The determination of the moisture distribution through the thickness of full chrome upper leather is described. Results for leathers from several sources, both British and American, show the same general distribution. When in equilibrium with normal atmospheric conditions, all show a moisture content in the corium that is about 7-10% higher than in the grain and flesh layers. The difference in moisture content between the inner and outer layers becomes greater as the total equilibrium moisture content of the leather increases. Degreasing the leather has very little effect on moisture distribution; after samples are allowed to re-equilibrate in a constant atmosphere, the same moisture pattern is found. The moisture distribution appears to follow closely that of the hide substance, except in the grain layer, where post-tanning processes may complicate the picture. The effects of various mulling and heating treatments on moisture distribution are also described. All the results show how quickly added moisture can penetrate to the corium, making it almost impossible to increase the moisture content of the grain and flesh layers without also increasing that of the corium.