Comparison of the Technical Performance of Leather, Artificial Leather, and Trendy AlternativesThe market for biogenic and synthetic alternatives to leather is increasing aiming to replace animal-based materials with vegan alternatives. In parallel, bio-based raw materials should be used instead of fossil-based synthetic raw materials. In this study by FILK Freiberg Institute, a shoe upper leather and an artificial leather, and nine alternative materials (Desserto®, Kombucha, Pinatex®, Noani®, Appleskin®, Vegea®, SnapPap®, Teak Leaf®, and Muskin®) were investigated.None of the leather alternatives showed the universal performance of leather. Nevertheless, some materials achieved high values in selected properties. It is speculated that the grown multilayer structure of leather with a very tight surface and a gradient of the structural density over the cross-section causes this universal performance. To date, this structure could neither be achieved with synthetic nor with bio-based materials.Read the full studyInteresting for you Discover more on Leather Phenolic monomers in aromatic syntans: the influence on leatherAromatic 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. Bio-based materials vs renewable: what is the difference?The term “renewable” has a broader meaning referring not only to source of materials but also to source of energy. Bio-based solutions are a way to achieve higher renewability. RIUC©: material of the future, born from the circular economyWhat if we finally had a material for the future, sustainable by nature, resulting from the recycling of organic fibers and whose resistance has no equivalent among natural materials? Sustainability, responsibility, innovation, adaptability... Discover RIUC©, material of the future Leather Discover Stay informedReceive the latest company news and industry updatesSubscribeShare this: