Abstract

Removal of non-collagenous skin substances during the early stages of lambskin processing can be monitored by measuring the increasing porosity of the pelts. An experimental technique has been developed to measure skin porosity as a function of the maximum pressure required to drive air through the pelt from the flesh to the grain surface using a simple apparatus. Readings should be taken at the OSP of skins directly from processing. The technique can be used to monitor the progress of enzyme processing or the effects of different levels of application of enzyme treatments.