Study of a chrome tanning process without float and with low-salt content as compared to a traditional process. Part II
Abstract
The traditional chrome-tanning process poses several disadvantages from the environmental point of view including effluent volume as well as chromium and chloride content. We have thus modified the process in order to minimize these disadvantages. The tanning process has been carried out with almost no float by simply utilizing the float already contained in the hide. As there is very little water, the quantity of sodium chloride required to avoid the swelling of the skin decreases sharply, due to the acidic conditions. In a corresponding manner, the mechanical work on the skin increases and the fixation of chrome salt is greater. Water consumption and chrome discharge are dramatically lower using the new system instead of the traditional system. A comparison of results shows that by using the new system water consumption decreases by 78 percent, chrome oxide content by 86 percent and chlorides present in the effluents by 94 percent.