Phenolic monomers in aromatic syntans: the influence on leather Aromatic syntans are widely used in the (re)tanning of leathers. Phenolic monomers such as phenol, phenolsulfonic acid, bisphenol S, and bisphenol F are common compounds in aromatic syntans. Color Analysis The SmiTool Light and Heat already discussed the subject of heat yellowing and light fastness tests on leather. The current SmiTool explains the differences between subjective and objective assessments of tested leather and how to report test results for heat yellowing and light fastness. Biopol collection The Smit & Zoon company developed new range of Biopol products. These are based on the concept of the circular economy. Circular economy focuses on the utilization of renewable sources, waste streams reutilization or smart utilization of low(no)-value biomass side-streams minimizing product environmental footprint. Stay informed. Subscribe to our newsletter Subscribe Softness Learn about the important aspects when making soft leather, the influence of wet-end processes and which Smit & zoon products are most suitable for your optimal leather properties. Waterproof leather Learn about the many different parameters that influence good, waterproof leather. Making leather waterproof contains more than just choosing the right fatliquor (this is actually the easiest part). The key lies in the right processes such as running times, temperature control, washing and polyvalent metal fixing. Strength properties In this SmiTools episode, Smit & zoon shares a synopsis on the topic ‘Strength Properties’. Learn about the different ways to measure leather strength (e.g. tear strength, tensile strength), the causes of strength loss, and remedies to reduced leather strength. Fatty spew On processed leathers it is sometimes observed that, over time, an undesired, white, milky film appears on top of the leather. This white layer often gives rise to debates on its origin and causes and, in some cases, leads to a claim for damages. This phenomenon is called ‘fatty spew’. The possible sources of fatty spew may be of diverse nature, they are similar in one respect. They always originate from high melting point substances. Light & Heat In this edition Smit & Zoon shares a synopsis on the topic ‘Light fastness & Heat resistance’. Learn about the yellowing of leather by the influence of warmth and/or light and time. How do you minimize the risk and how are the assessments done? Simplicity Making leather is no longer the art it once was. Leather makers now have to comply with such a vast amount of legislation and other regulations that the actual process of producing leather has been effectively sidelined. Simplicity If the leather industry showed signs to pick up again in our view from a difficult 2019 then the Covid-19 virus is a new cause for uncertainty as it impacts global supply chains such as the supply chain of leather. This means for 2020 again at least for the first half year we continue to see uncertainty and yet at Smit & Zoon we continue to be tentatively positive. More and more parties in the leather industry join Leather Naturally and similar initiatives to make genuine leather again more visible. Knowledge center Go to all knowledge items Knowledge Stay informed Receive the latest company news and industry updates Subscribe
