tanniinointi

Tanniinointi refers to the process of treating leather with tannins, which are a type of naturally occurring phenolic compound. This process is crucial for transforming raw animal hides into stable, durable leather. Tannins bind to the collagen proteins in the hide, preventing decomposition and giving the leather its characteristic properties such as flexibility, water resistance, and resistance to microbial attack.

There are two main types of tanniinointi: vegetable tanning and chrome tanning. Vegetable tanning uses tannins derived from plant sources like tree bark, leaves, and roots. This method is older and produces leather with a distinct aroma and rich color variations. The process is typically slower, taking several weeks or even months, and is considered more environmentally friendly, although it can be labor-intensive.

Chrome tanning, on the other hand, uses chromium salts. It is a much faster process, often completed within a day, and results in leather that is typically softer, more pliable, and uniformly colored. Chrome-tanned leather is widely used in the fashion industry for items like shoes, bags, and garments. However, concerns exist regarding the environmental impact of chromium tanning wastewater. Both methods ultimately serve to stabilize the hide and create usable leather, with the choice often depending on the desired properties of the final product and environmental considerations.