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Progress and recent trends in biotechnological methods for leather processing

2004; Elsevier BV; Volume: 22; Issue: 4 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/j.tibtech.2004.02.008

0167-9430

P. Thanikaivelan, Jonnalagadda Raghava Rao, Balachandran Unni Nair, T. Ramasami,

Enzyme-mediated dye degradation

Abstract Global environmental regulations are changing the leather-processing industry. Pre-tanning and tanning processes contribute 80–90% of the total pollution in the industry and generate noxious gases, such as hydrogen sulfide, as well as solid wastes, such as lime and chrome sludge. The use of enzyme-based products is currently being explored for many areas of leather making. Furthermore, enzymes are gaining increasing importance in the de-hairing process, eliminating the need for sodium sulfide. This review discusses emerging novel biotechnological methods used in leather processing. One significant achievement is the development of a bioprocess-based de-hairing and fiber-opening methodology to reduce toxic waste.