Abstract

In this study, an industrial-scale tanning process intended to replace chrome tanning in the production of high quality bovine shoe upper leathers, has been realized by a one-step synthetic tannage based on a melamine resin and THPS as cross-linking agent. This paper reports the best recipe developed, the properties of the leather obtained and scanning electron microscopy examination used as investigational methods to follow the tanning process and to better understand the cross-linking mechanisms. The leather obtained is characterized by good hydrothermal stability, coupled with good physical and technical properties which allow it to meet the standards required for high quality chromium-tanned bovine upper leather. The results obtained suggest that this tannage is a promising alternative to traditional chrome tanning.