Management of total dissolved solids in tanning process through improved techniques

In this paper, two approaches viz., recycle/reuse of pickle liquor for the subsequent batches as well as resorting to pickle free alum-chrome combination tanning systems have been studied. Pickle liquor from the first batch has been successfully recycled for subsequent batches with appropriate replenishments. The use of potash alum for the pH reduction process has been successfully employed in place of the conventional process. Significant levels of TDS reduction were observed through using both approaches. The strength property and organoleptic property assessments indicate that experimental leathers were comparable with those of leathers processed by the conventional process. It is believed that pickle liquor recycling and pickle free alum chrome combination tanning systems could be gainfully employed to overcome the environmental problems of TDS and chromium problems in the effluent and at the same time effectively obtain economic benefits.