Leather is the largest application of collagen where typical tanning chemistries include metal salts, polyphenolics and aldehydes. A new type of material that is gaining industrial significance is based on a composite of collagen and zeolite in the area of sustainable leather manufacture. This approach utilises simple, abundant, and benign chemistry, which provides leather with the physical properties needed for a range of possible applications.In this research article, published in the journal Green Chemistry, scientists from University of Northampton, Royal Smit & Zoon and NZ Leather Research, give a deeper insight on modified zeolites (Zeology) as a versatile and sustainable means to move away from established tanning methods. “A new material gaining industrial significance for sustainable leather is based on a composite of collagen and zeolite. The zeolite forms a 3D network structure covering collagen fibres, improving protein stability and creating material strength.” – Green ChemistryThe article is written by:William Wise, University of Northampton, Institute for Creative Leather TechnologiesStefan Davis, University of Northampton Institute for Creative Leather TechnologiesWouter Hendriksen, Royal Smit and ZoonDirick Von Behr, Royal Smit & ZoonSujay Prabakar, NZ Leather ResearchYi Zhang, NZ Leather ResearchMore information about tanning with ZeologyInteresting for you Discover more on Innovation What chemicals are used to tan leather?The most used chemical to tan leather is chromium III. Other chemicals used in tanning are aldehyde, vegetable tannins and zeolites. Exploring the Different Types of Leather Chemicals Used in Leather ProductionFrom Tanning Agents to Finishing Chemicals: A Comprehensive Overview of the Different Types of Leather Chemicals. Zeology tanning for yak hides, raised by local farmersZeology tanning is helping the locals get more out of yak hides, which would otherwise largely be discarded. Using the responsible tanning concept, they can get even more use out of the yak after slaughter. Innovation Discover Stay informedReceive the latest company news and industry updatesSubscribeShare this: