Prevention of carcinogenic Cr (VI) formation in leather –A three pronged approach for leather products

Abstract

Antioxidants, based on chemical, natural and bio origin, have been used for the prevention of hexavalent chromium formation in leather. Formation of Cr (VI) is monitored in the leathers after processing and after accelerated ageing. Gallic acid and ascorbic acid are found to be more effective in the pre tanning process in the prevention of oxidation of Cr (III) to Cr (VI). Myrobalan and tara play a effective role in the chrome tanning process and prevent the formation of hexavalent chromium. The study shows that chromium based leathers can be easily classified in to benign material for manufacturing of consumer products, if these strategies are used.