Sustaining tanning process through conservation, recovery and better utilization of chromium

Leather is a unique material unmatched in properties by synthetics. Leather making is an environmentally challenged process. Tanning is the key process that renders stability to the skin matrix against microbial degradation, heat, sweat etc. Chromium(III) has been used widely in tanning for the excellent properties that it renders to the leather along with simplicity of operation. The reported toxicity of chromium compounds coupled with poor uptake of chromium during tanning process has challenged the continued use of this process. Problems associated with tanning have been classified as avoidable, controllable and unavoidable. Technological developments in avoidance and control of pollution in leather processing have come forth. There are both in-plant and end-of-pipe treatment solutions. This paper surveys the development of technologies that have rendered the tanning process eco-sustainable. A call for further understanding of the chemistry of tanning and need for cross-fertilization of ideas is made for enabling the greening of the tanning industry.

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