Abstract

Pad and spray methods of applying finishes have been compared with airless spray and curtain coating on leathers with two levels of vegetable retannage, two types of fatliquor, and either air or vacuum drying. The methods of application were found to affect almost all characteristics examined, including break, whiteness, gloss, and flex resistance of the finish. Finishes with more casein produced less foaming, but had lower flex resistance. A previously unrecognized type of fault was found, where the leather finish can pass the double bend test but splinters in a way similar to cold cracking when struck at normal temperatures.