New type of imitation leather

Abstract

The invention relates to imitation leather, a piece of garment comprising said imitation leather, and a process for manufacturing said imitation leather.

Description

[0001] New artificial leather

[0002] SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The invention relates to an artificial leather, a garment comprising the artificial leather and a method for producing the artificial leather.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The leather industry is one of the sectors with the highest potential for environmental pollution. The chemicals used in tanning, particularly antibiotics, tanning agents, biocides, and volatile organic chemicals such as formaldehyde, can cause lasting environmental damage if not used properly. However, proper use of these chemicals is costly and time-consuming. Furthermore, some of the substances used can remain in the material and only leach out during later use. This poses health risks for the end consumer. Furthermore, there are also ethical concerns regarding the use of animal hides.

[0006] Therefore, there have long been efforts to replace leather with synthetic materials. These substitutes are generally referred to as synthetic leather. This is often a composite of a textile base and a plastic layer applied to it, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane (PU).

[0007] DE 1 635 546 A describes an artificial leather produced by papermaking processes, wherein the artificial leather consists essentially of non-fibrous elastomeric polyurethane with minor admixtures of staple fibers, preferably synthetic fibers or leather fibers.

[0008] DE 199 37 808 A1 relates to a leather substitute material which has an essentially fabric-like carrier layer, a thinner barrier layer applied thereon and a covering layer provided on the barrier layer.

[0009] DE 102015 101 331 A1 relates to a translucent synthetic leather with a textile support structure and at least one layer of PU or PVC. The composite layer can also have a surface coating. The synthetic leather obtained using this process has several advantages over animal leather. PVC synthetic leather is inexpensive and robust, whereas PU synthetic leather has advantageous material properties such as repeated washability. Since synthetic leather is produced as a continuous material, cutting is also much easier than with animal leather. The manufacturing process is also considerably shorter, as the complex tanning process is eliminated. Furthermore, synthetic leather manufacturers are not tied to the market availability of specific animal hides.

[0010] However, previously known artificial leather materials are primarily based on synthetic plastics, which are made from finite fossil resources such as petroleum and are not biodegradable. Furthermore, such artificial leather materials usually contain solvent or dispersant residues and plasticizers and are therefore not entirely harmless to health. Furthermore, artificial leather often cannot achieve the same visual and tactile properties as animal leather.

[0011] Many of the above-mentioned problems are solved by the layered composite disclosed in EP 3 710 631 A1. This comprises a textile carrier layer, a cover layer, and a decorative layer comprising a plant-based leaf material, which is arranged between the carrier and the cover layer. However, the cover layer required for this layered composite leads to reduced biodegradability of the artificial leather and thus reduces its sustainability. Furthermore, the application of a cover layer, which often consists of a synthetic polymer material, involves an additional work step and thus a more complex manufacturing process. Furthermore, the range of applications of the layered composite of EP 3 710 631 A1 is limited by the properties that can be achieved with a plant-based leaf material as a decorative layer.For example, light shades of leather can only be achieved with additional (artificial) dyes in the decorative layer.

[0012] TASK

[0013] Against this background, the object of the invention is therefore to provide an artificial leather which is easier to produce and which can be produced in a more environmentally friendly or sustainable manner than the known natural and / or synthetic leathers, which is at least partially biodegradable and can be used in the widest possible field.

[0014] DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] This object is achieved according to the invention by a composite material comprising i. a binder, ii. a filler material arranged at least partially, preferably completely within the binder, comprising an inorganic salt and / or a fiber material and / or lignin and / or a combination of plant leaf material and a gum material, preferably starch gum, and iii. optionally: a humectant.

[0016] In contrast to known leather substitutes, in particular the layered composite known from EP 3710 631 A1, the synthetic leather according to the invention, particularly when using a fiber material and / or an inorganic salt as a filler material, completely eliminates the need for a protective cover layer and also a stabilizing textile base layer without significantly negatively impacting the material properties. This is made possible by a synthetic leather that exhibits sufficient stability and durability. The synthetic leather not only exhibits optical and tactile functions, but also exhibits structural stability and flexibility thanks to the filler material.

[0017] For this purpose, the artificial leather has at least two or three components: a binder, a filler material, and an optional humectant. The binder serves as a matrix material for absorbing the filler material, which gives the artificial leather its mechanical stability. By embedding the filler material in the binder, a flexible, i.e. elastically stretchable and bendable, yet stable layer is formed. The third, optional component, the humectant, prevents or slows down the drying out of the artificial leather. The artificial leather can also have several of the respective components, for example several different filler materials and / or humectants. In a preferred embodiment, the artificial leather can have several layers, for example several decorative and / or carrier layers. In other words, the artificial leather can be in the form of a layered composite.When we refer to a layered composite in the following, we mean an arrangement with several layers.

[0018] Such a layer composite may, for example, comprise carrier layers and / or cover layers and / or decorative layers and / or adhesive layers.

[0019] A carrier layer strengthens the structural strength of the composite and can ensure good processability, especially when the layered composite is sewn.

[0020] Typically, the carrier layer is formed from a textile material, preferably selected from the group consisting of nonwovens, woven fabrics, knits, braids, or mixtures of the above. A cover layer comprises or consists of a plastic, wax, or protein material, or a combination of rubber material and binder, or a mixture of the above. It essentially serves to protect underlying layers from external influences such as moisture, abrasion, and / or radiation.

[0021] The decorative layer essentially determines the optical properties of the composite layer and, for this purpose, comprises the filler material(s) and the binder. It is preferably arranged between a carrier layer and a decorative layer.

[0022] By combining several layers, especially several decorative and / or carrier layers, the optical and structural properties of the artificial leather can be adapted even more individually.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, however, the artificial leather is formed in a single layer. This results in products that are particularly easy to manufacture. In a layered composite, there is usually a separation of functions, i.e. the individual layers only have a single function (e.g. decorative or covering function). The mechanical resistance of the overall composite is determined by the weakest layer. By combining mechanical reinforcement (inorganic salt, lignin and / or fiber material) and other functions (e.g. optical properties of fiber material or inorganic salt), this problem is solved. Furthermore, due to the integral design of the artificial leather composite material, layer transitions that can act as predetermined breaking points in the composite are avoided.This results in significantly improved mechanical properties for the single-layer material, such as improved tensile strength, elongation at break, and impact strength. Furthermore, it allows for the production of a uniform product across the board.

[0024] The mechanical properties of the artificial leather can be controlled in particular through the properties of the filling material, especially its hardness. For example, using an inorganic salt as a filling material can generally produce a significantly stronger material, whereas using plant leaf material as a filling material tends to result in a soft, i.e. highly flexible, artificial leather. Using lignin as a filler also results in a comparatively strong artificial leather; in particular, when the filler content is ≥ 20 wt% of the total weight of the decorative layer and / or the artificial leather, a very strong artificial leather is obtained. The filling material not only gives the artificial leather a good grip, an attractive appearance and sufficient stability, it can also impart a pleasant scent.This effect can be enhanced and controlled, in particular, by a layered composite structure, namely by the artificial leather having several layers that are partially or fully needled and not glued and / or pressed together. This increases the permeability of the artificial leather, allowing fragrances contained in the filling material or binding agent to be released more easily.

[0025] By using various inorganic salts, fiber materials, or plant leaf materials, or mixtures of the aforementioned, optionally in combination with lignin, the artificial leather according to the invention can be used to recreate virtually any conceivable leather color. The artificial leather according to the invention can therefore be used in a wide variety of different applications.

[0026] Particularly preferably, the synthetic leather comprises a plurality of filling materials, with at least one of the filling materials being a fiber material or an inorganic salt. The combination of fiber material and inorganic salt is also particularly preferred.

[0027] The binder serves as a matrix material for the filling material. It is therefore present in the artificial leather in its cured form and thus enables the filling material to be firmly integrated into the artificial leather. The binder is particularly preferably an organic binder. It is particularly preferably a polymeric binder - preferably organic - such as a cross-linked or partially cross-linked polymer. The combination of binder and filler material makes it possible to obtain artificial leather with sufficient stability that is simultaneously (elastically) deformable. In its other properties, such as abrasion resistance and wear behavior, the artificial leather is similar to animal leather. In order to retain these properties, achieved in particular by the mixture of filler and binder, over an extended period, the artificial leather can contain a humectant.A humectant is an additive that prevents artificial leather from drying out by binding water and / or attracting moisture from the air. This maintains its elasticity.

[0028] According to the invention, "plant leaf material" refers to whole or chopped untreated or treated leaves, in particular leaf dust. This also includes petals, i.e., all the leaves of a flower, such as rose petals. "Treated leaves" refers to plant leaves or chopped sections thereof that have been preserved by fermentation, chemical treatment, in particular with alcohols, or by drying. In a preferred embodiment, the plant leaf material is fermented, i.e., it has undergone a fermentation process that brings the dried leaves into a state suitable for storage and consumption.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, the plant leaf material can be chemically treated before use in the artificial leather, preferably with a mixture of water and a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerin. This is particularly advantageous when the plant leaf material comprises or consists of entire leaves or sections of leaves. This gives the plant leaf material elastic deformability and increased breaking strength, in particular increased tensile strength and flexural strength. Furthermore, it has been found that the plant leaf material, even in the layered composite, can continue to undergo a maturing process which improves the deformability and breaking strength of the material. The maturing process lasts at least one week, preferably two weeks, more preferably one month, and most preferably two months.An improvement in properties through the ripening process is particularly evident when an optional top layer contains or consists of a wax material.

[0030] If the filling material of the artificial leather comprises a plant leaf material, then – in contrast to versions where an inorganic salt and / or a fiber material and / or lignin is used as the filling material – a rubber material must also be a component of the filling material. This is the only way to obtain a sufficiently stable, yet flexible artificial leather that does not require protection with an additional covering layer. A rubber material is understood to be substances containing heteropolysaccharides and polysaccharides, particularly exudates, which, when combined with a solvent such as water, form highly viscous and sticky solutions that harden elastically and can thus impart a stable, yet flexible structure to the decorative layer with plant leaf material. This term also includes, in particular, vulcanizates of natural and synthetic rubbers. The rubber material is particularly preferably starch rubber (dextrin).

[0031] If the filling material of the artificial leather is an inorganic salt and / or a fiber material and / or lignin, in a preferred embodiment the artificial leather may further comprise a rubber material.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the filler material consists of an inorganic salt and / or a fiber material and / or lignin and / or a combination of plant leaf material and a rubber material, preferably starch rubber. The combination of plant leaf material and a rubber material is preferably introduced into the artificial leather as a mixture, particularly preferably as a homogeneous mixture, as a filler material during its production. In another preferred embodiment, the plant leaf material and the rubber material are introduced as separate components during production.

[0033] If the filling material of the artificial leather comprises a plant-based leaf material, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, this is essentially free of wood fibers. Within the scope of the present invention, this means that the proportion of wood fibers, for example, material from wood chips, sawdust, logs, and branches, is less than 5% by weight, preferably less than 1% by weight, even more preferably less than 0.5% by weight, and most preferably less than 0.1% by weight. Such wood fibers can negatively impair the optical and tactile properties of the material.

[0034] Particularly preferably, the plant leaf material is selected from the group consisting of rose petals, vine leaves, cherry laurel leaves, hemp leaves, and tobacco. The plant leaf material is particularly preferably tobacco.

[0035] Tobacco offers several advantages over other plant leaf materials. As a raw material, it is readily available year-round. Due to declining demand for tobacco, there is generally excess production capacity, which can be acquired inexpensively. Furthermore, tobacco contains a high proportion of natural alkaloids, particularly nicotine, which act as insecticides. This keeps mites and other pests away from artificial leather and produces a particularly durable imitation leather. Furthermore, tobacco leaves, especially after treatment with a mixture of water and a polyhydric alcohol, are particularly flexible and tear-resistant. In addition to its visual qualities, its natural scent is another reason for using tobacco in artificial leather. These advantageous properties are particularly pronounced in fermented tobacco.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the plant leaf material of the artificial leather is finely ground tobacco and / or tobacco dust and / or tobacco clippings, wherein the plant leaf material is preferably bound in the artificial leather by a polysaccharide, i.e., the binding agent is a polysaccharide. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the polysaccharide is dissolved or suspended in a solvent or dispersant containing or consisting of a humectant such as a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerin prior to the formation of the decorative layer.

[0037] In another preferred embodiment, plant leaves and / or sections and / or panicles are the plant leaf material of the artificial leather, particularly as part of a separate decorative layer. Such a leaf material gives the artificial leather a particularly natural and elegant appearance and can therefore also be referred to as a finishing layer. Similar to animal crocodile or snake leather, such a decorative layer creates a unique, constantly differently structured and vibrant appearance of the layered composite. To achieve particularly good optical and tactile properties of the artificial leather, in a preferred embodiment of the invention the leaves are laid overlapping. This creates an artificial leather with sections of different thicknesses. These "irregularities" in the artificial leather give the user the impression of a particularly natural imitation leather.

[0038] For the purposes of the present invention, "inorganic salt" is understood to be an inorganic, crystalline substance composed of positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions). Ionic bonds exist between these ions. As a solid, these ions together form an ionic lattice, which is responsible for the strength of the material. The inorganic salt is preferably a mineral compound, i.e., a uniform, natural, and inorganic component of the earth. The term inorganic salt also includes coordination compounds composed of one or more central particles and one or more ligands. The proportion of natural components in the artificial leather can be further increased by using minerals.

[0039] "Lignin" is the collective term for a group of phenolic macromolecules that are preferably three-dimensionally linked. Like inorganic salts, lignin can impart particularly pronounced strength to synthetic leather.

[0040] Fiber material is a term for materials that consist essentially, i.e., ≥ 50% by weight, of fibers. A fiber is a linear, elementary structure consisting of a fibrous material. The fibers used in the artificial leather according to the invention are preferably biogenic and mineral fibers (natural fibers). However, they can also be artificially created organic or inorganic fibers (synthetic fibers or chemical fibers).

[0041] Preferred are natural fibers, which are preferably selected from the group consisting of plant and / or animal and / or mineral fibers. Particularly preferred are plant hairs such as cotton or kapok; bast fibers such as flax, hemp, jute, sunn, kenaf, or ramie; hard fibers such as sisal, henequen, manila, phormium, or coconut; wool and hair such as sheep's wool, mohair, and camel's horsehair; silks such as mulberry silk and wild silk; and mineral fibers such as asbestos.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the fiber is a cellulose, which in turn is preferably produced by chemical digestion of straw, bagasse, kenaf, bamboo or hemp.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the filling material or the binder is colored with a synthetic or, preferably, natural dye. This allows the optical properties of various animal leather types to be imitated. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the dye is partially or completely food-safe and / or consists of substances that can be recycled into biological cycles as biological nutrients or continuously maintained in technical cycles as technical nutrients (cradle-to-cradle certification).

[0044] The thickness of the artificial leather is, for example, 0.1 to 30 mm, in a preferred embodiment 0.1 to 20 mm, more preferably 0.1 to 10 mm, particularly preferably 0.1 to 5 mm, most preferably 0.2 to 2 mm.

[0045] The abrasion resistance of the artificial leather according to the invention is preferably at least 10,000 Martindale cycles, more preferably at least 20,000 Martindale cycles, even more preferably at least 30,000 Martindale cycles, even more preferably at least 50,000 Martindale cycles and most preferably at least 100,000 Martindale cycles.

[0046] The abrasion resistance in Martindale can be determined as described in DIN EN ISO 12947-1.

[0047] The surface weight (grammage) of the artificial leather is in a preferred embodiment 100 to 3000 g / m 2 , preferably 400 to 2500 g / m 2 , particularly preferably 600 to 1800 g / m 2 , preferably 700 to 1200 m 2 .

[0048] The synthetic leather is stable, lighter than animal leather, scratch-resistant, and water-repellent. It is also characterized by abrasion resistance, heat resistance, and excellent wear resistance. Versions with an inorganic salt as a filler, in particular, are characterized by high and lasting lightfastness. By combining different fillers (plant leaf material and rubber material, inorganic salt, fiber material, and / or lignin), the properties of the synthetic leather can be tailored to the specific application. For example, a highly light-resistant and brightly translucent synthetic leather can be obtained by using titanium dioxide as a filler. Furthermore, the synthetic leather, especially in the single- or double-layer structure, is much easier and faster to produce than conventional imitation leather.Typically, the artificial leather is ready for use once the binding agent has dried. A large portion of the artificial leather, and in some versions even the entire artificial leather, is also recyclable, as the materials used are biodegradable and / or of natural origin.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the weight proportion of the filler material in the artificial leather is at least 10 wt.%, more preferably at least 15 wt.%, even more preferably at least 20 wt.%, even more preferably at least 25 wt.%, even more preferably at least 30 wt.%, and most preferably at least 40 wt.%, but preferably also ≤ 60 wt.%. A high proportion of filler material improves the mechanical properties of the artificial leather, in particular its stability.

[0050] The artificial leather can contain one or more humectants. The humectant prevents drying out and thus ensures that the artificial leather remains permanently flexible. This is particularly important given that the artificial leather according to the invention does not need a top layer, i.e., it can be formed as a single layer that protects against drying out.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the humectant is selected from glycerin, polydextrose, sorbitol, polyhydric alcohols and polyalcohols such as 1,2-propanediol, glycol, alditols, aloe vera gel, honey, lithium chloride, molasses, xylitol, hydroxycarboxylic acids, hyaluronic acids and salts or esters of hyaluronic acid (these also act as binding agents and are therefore particularly preferred); triacetin, cellulose powder, quillaja extract, urea, pantolactone, polyols or mixtures of the aforementioned.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the weight proportion of the humectant in the artificial leather is at least 15 wt.%, more preferably at least 20 wt.%, even more preferably at least 25 wt.%, even more preferably at least 30 wt.%, even more preferably at least 35 wt.%, even more preferably at least 40 wt.%, and most preferably at least 45 wt.%, but preferably also at least 60 wt.%. A high proportion of humectant improves elasticity and thus prevents buckling / breaking.

[0053] If the artificial leather has a separate decorative layer, this can contain one or more inorganic salts as filling material.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the one or more inorganic salts that can be contained in the artificial leather and / or the decorative layer are selected from halides, in particular chlorides and bromides, oxides, hydroxides, sulfides, carbonates, sulfates, phosphates, nitrates and mixtures of the aforementioned. Chlorides, bromides, phosphates and sulfates are particularly preferred. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the inorganic salt is pH-neutral, i.e. a 0.1 molar solution of the salt in water has a pH in the range 5-9, preferably 6-8. This prevents impairment of the other components of the artificial leather and results in a more durable artificial leather. The inorganic salt or salts are preferably present in powder form in the artificial leather.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the inorganic salt comprises a metallic cation, which is preferably selected from the metallic main group elements, particularly preferably from alkali and alkaline earth metals. The inorganic salt is particularly preferably free of heavy metals, i.e., the proportion of metals with a density > 5.0 g / cm 3of the inorganic salt is ≤ 1 wt.%, preferably ≤ 0.1 wt.%. This ensures that the artificial leather according to the invention is particularly sustainable and environmentally friendly. The inorganic salt is particularly preferably a mineral, particularly preferably chalk, kaolin, kaolinite, phyllosilicates, in particular clay minerals, halloysite, marble, in particular marble flour, basalt, in particular basalt flour, slate, in particular slate flour, iron oxide, in particular iron(II) oxide and iron(III) oxide, titanium oxide, or zeolite. Zeolites are particularly preferred due to their adsorption capacity, which can be used, for example, to absorb odors.

[0056] If the filling material includes plant material, the filling material must also contain a rubber material to ensure that a stable yet flexible decorative layer is obtained.

[0057] The rubber material is preferably selected from gum arabic, tragacanth, vulcanizates of natural and synthetic rubbers, karaya gum and starch gum.

[0058] The artificial leather further comprises at least one binder, i.e. a film-forming material in which the filling material can be bound, so that a layer with the filling material contained therein can be formed. The binder also gives the material a certain flexibility, which is advantageous when used as imitation leather. The binder can be a synthetic polymer material. In order to increase the biocompatibility and sustainability of the artificial leather, the binder is preferably a biopolymer, which preferably consists of biogenic, i.e. renewable, raw materials or at least comprises such and / or is biodegradable. The binder is particularly preferably a gelling agent based on a plant or animal protein or a binder based on a polysaccharide, in particular a polysaccharide, such as a galactose polymer.The gelling agent is particularly preferably selected from the group consisting of agar-agar, chitosan, hyaluronic acids and salts or esters of hyaluronic acid, pectin and xanthan, natural and synthetic resins, gelatin, alginic acid and alginate, cellulose, carrageenan, furcellaran, locust bean gum, guar gum, tragacanth, tara gum, gellan, cellulose ethers, modified starch, glue, or mixtures of the aforementioned. The binder and / or the decorative layer and / or the artificial leather are particularly preferably substantially free of polyurethane or polyvinyl chloride, and particularly preferably free of polyurethane and polyvinyl chloride. This is preferred because these polymers release partially toxic compounds upon decomposition. This allows a particularly ecologically safe material to be obtained.Essentially free in this context means that the weight fraction of polyurethane and / or polyvinyl chloride in the total weight of the binder and / or the decorative layer and / or the artificial leather is ≤ 20 wt.%, preferably ≤ 10 wt.%, more preferably ≤ 5 wt.%, more preferably ≤ 2 wt.%, even more preferably < 1 wt.%, and most preferably ≤ 0.5 wt.%.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the binder is obtained by alkaline hydrolysis of a fiber material, in particular the fiber material used as filler material, and subsequent regeneration, e.g. with an acid.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the weight proportion of the binder in the artificial leather is at least 10 wt.%, more preferably at least 15 wt.%, even more preferably at least 20 wt.%, even more preferably at least 25 wt.%, even more preferably at least 30 wt.%, and most preferably at least 40 wt.%, but preferably also not more than 60 wt.%. A high proportion of binder is beneficial for obtaining a stable artificial leather in which the filling material can be evenly distributed.

[0061] Preferably, the weight ratio of binder to filler material in the artificial leather and / or in the decorative layer is in the range of 1:10 to 10:1, preferably 1:2 to 10:1, more preferably 1:1 to 5:1 or 1:2 to 2:1, even more preferably 1:1 to 3:1 or 1:2 to 1:1 and most preferably 1:1 to 2:1.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the weight proportion of water in the decorative layer and / or the artificial leather is at least 1 wt.%, more preferably at least 2 wt.%, even more preferably at least 5 wt.%, even more preferably at least 10 wt.% and most preferably at least 15 wt.%, but preferably also not more than 30 wt.%. The weight ratio of binder to humectant in the artificial leather and / or in the decorative layer is preferably in the range of 1:10 to 10:1, preferably 1:2 to 10:1, preferably 1:1 to 5:1, even more preferably 1:1 to 3:1 and most preferably 1:1 to 2:1.

[0063] In the event that the artificial leather comprises a separate carrier layer, this can strengthen the structural strength of the composite and ensure good processability, especially when the layered composite is sewn.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the artificial leather or the textile carrier layer comprises a fiber material or, in the case of the carrier layer, can also consist of this, wherein the form of the fiber material is selected from the group consisting of nonwovens, woven fabrics, knitwear, braids or mixtures of the aforementioned.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the filling material is a fiber material which is arranged at least partially, preferably completely, within the binder, wherein this fiber material is in the form of a textile structure, such as a nonwoven, woven fabric, knitwear, braids or mixtures of the aforementioned.

[0066] Nonwovens, woven fabrics, knitwear, braids or mixtures of the above are textile materials that are made up of fibres but differ from one another in the arrangement of the fibres.

[0067] According to the invention, nonwoven is understood to be a structure made of fibers of limited length, continuous fibers (filaments), or cut yarns of any type and any origin, which have been combined in any way to form a fiber layer and bonded together in any way. This excludes the crossing or entangling of yarns, as occurs in weaving, knitting, lacemaking, braiding, and the manufacture of tufted products. This definition corresponds to the DIN EN ISO 9092 standard. According to the invention, the term nonwoven also includes felt materials. Films and papers, however, are not considered nonwovens.

[0068] The nonwovens are preferably anisotropic nonwovens, i.e., those with fiber orientation. This allows an anisotropic mechanical behavior of the layered composite to be created, thereby increasing its tear resistance.

[0069] According to the invention, a fabric is understood to be a textile fabric consisting of two thread systems, warp (warp threads) and weft (weft threads), which, viewed on the fabric surface, intersect in a pattern at an angle of exactly or approximately 90°. Each of the two systems can be composed of several warp or weft types (e.g., ground, pile, and filling warp; ground, binding, and filling weft). The warp threads run in the longitudinal direction of the fabric, parallel to the fabric edge, and the weft threads run in the transverse direction, parallel to the fabric edge. The threads are connected to the fabric primarily by friction. For a fabric to be sufficiently slip-resistant, the warp and weft threads must usually be woven relatively tightly. Therefore, with few exceptions, the fabrics also have a closed appearance. This definition corresponds to the standard DIN 61100, Part 1.

[0070] The fiber material is particularly preferably a short fiber material.

[0071] According to the invention, the terms woven and nonwoven also include tufted textile materials. Tufting is a process in which yarns are anchored into a woven or nonwoven fabric using a machine powered by compressed air and / or electricity.

[0072] According to the invention, knitwear refers to textile fabrics made from thread systems by stitch formation. This includes both crocheted and knitted fabrics.

[0073] For the purposes of the invention, braiding refers to the regular interlacing of several strands of flexible material. The difference from weaving is that in braiding, the threads are not fed at right angles to the main product direction.

[0074] The fibers of the nonwovens, woven fabrics, knitwear, braids or mixtures thereof may be natural fibers, chemical fibers or mixtures of the aforementioned.

[0075] Preferably, the fibers are of plant, animal, or mineral origin, or chemical fibers made from natural polymers or polymers based on natural raw materials. This can improve the proportion of natural components in the composite layer and thus its sustainability and biodegradability. Fibers of plant, animal, or mineral origin, i.e., natural fibers, are preferred.

[0076] The natural fibers are preferably selected from the group consisting of seed fibers, bast fibers, leaf fibers, and animal fibers. They are particularly preferably selected from the group consisting of cotton, animal wool, animal hair, silk, kapok, akon, poplar fluff, bamboo fiber, fiber nettle, hemp, hemp nettle, hemp bast, jute, urena, cactus fiber, banana fiber, linen, ramie, kenaf, roselle, sunns, abutilon, pung, castor oil plant, sisal, abaca, curaua, fibe, ixtle fiber, arenga, afrik, hequen, fique, phormium, alfa, maguey, yucca, pita, coconut, broom, hops, cattail reed, and bast. The chemical fibers are preferably selected from natural polymers or polymers based on natural raw materials. These are particularly preferably selected from the group consisting of viscose, modal, lyocell, curpo, cellulose acetates, protein fibers such as casein fibers, polylactides, alginates, chitin, bio-based polyamides, polyesters and polyisoprenes.

[0077] In a further embodiment, the chemical fibers made of synthetic polymers are selected from the group consisting of polyesters such as PET or PBT, polyamide, polyimide, polyamideimide, aramid, poly(metha)acrylates, modyacryl, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyethylene, polypropylene, polychloride, PVC, elastane, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyvinyl alcohol, vinylal, polyphenyl sulfide, melamine, polyurea, polyurethane, polybenzimidazole, polybenzoxal.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the possible textile carrier layer is 0.1 to 10 mm, more preferably 0.1 to 5 mm, particularly preferably 0.1 to 2 mm, most preferably 0.2 to 1 mm.

[0079] The basis weight (grammage) of the artificial leather and / or the carrier layer is, in a preferred embodiment, 50 to 500 g / m 2 , preferably 65 to 300 g / m 2 , particularly preferably 80-200 g / m 2 , most preferably 90-150 g / m 2. Due to a low surface weight, particularly light artificial leather can be produced.

[0080] The artificial leather can have multiple layers. These are preferably selected from the group consisting of carrier, decorative, adhesive, and cover layers. Particularly preferably, the layered composite has one or more additional decorative layers arranged between the carrier and an optional cover layer. In a preferred embodiment, the additional layers are arranged on both sides of the carrier layer. Particularly preferred in this context is the symmetrical arrangement of the layers in relation to the carrier layer, for example, a layer sequence: 1st cover layer, 1st decorative layer, carrier layer, 2nd decorative layer, 2nd cover layer.

[0081] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, such a layered composite has only adhesive layers as additional layers. In another preferred embodiment, the layered composite has no additional layers other than carrier and decorative layers.

[0082] The individual thicknesses of these additional layers are, in a preferred embodiment, 0.1 to 10 mm, more preferably 0.2 to 8 mm, particularly preferably 0.5 to 5 mm, most preferably 0.8 to 3 mm. The basis weight (grammage) of the additional layers is, in a preferred embodiment, 50 to 200 g / m 2 , preferably 65 to 300 g / m 2 , particularly preferably 80 to 200 g / m 2 , preferably 90 to 150 m 2 . Due to a low basis weight, particularly lightweight layered composites can be produced.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, such a layered composite can comprise one or more adhesive layers. The adhesive of the adhesive layers can be chemically curing and / or physically setting.

[0084] The adhesive of the adhesive layers is preferably selected from the group consisting of cyanoacrylates, methyl methacrylates, unsaturated polyesters, dispersion adhesives, solvent- or dispersion-containing wet adhesives, protein-based adhesives, hot melt adhesives, plastisols, epoxy adhesives, polyurethane adhesives, silicones, resins, in particular phenolic resins, polyimides, polysulfides, poly(meth)acrylates, polyvinyl acetates, rubbers and bismaleimides.

[0085] In order to produce the material in the most environmentally friendly way possible, protein adhesives are particularly preferred.

[0086] The adhesive is preferably cured by chemical curing or solidification through cooling. This allows for the use of small amounts of solvents or dispersants, or even eliminates them entirely. This is not only particularly sustainable, but also generally improves processing times and bonding within the layered composite.

[0087] In a further advantageous embodiment, the strength, in particular the tensile strength and / or the flexural strength, of one, several or all carrier layers and / or optional cover layer and / or optional adhesive layers is greater than that of the at least one decorative layer.

[0088] Tensile strength, also known as tear strength, is the maximum tensile stress a body can withstand. It can be determined through a tensile test.

[0089] The flexural strength refers to the maximum tensile stress a body can absorb when subjected to bending. It can be determined using a 3- or 4-point flexural tensile test. If, in an advantageous embodiment, the strength, in particular the tensile strength and / or the flexural strength, of one, several, or all carrier layers and / or optional cover layers and / or optional adhesive layers is greater than that of the at least one decorative layer, the carrier and / or optional cover and adhesive layers can absorb the resulting stresses under mechanical stress, so that the at least one decorative layer does not break or only breaks under greater load, which would result in disadvantageous cracks in the layer that determines the appearance.

[0090] Particularly preferably, the artificial leather and / or the decorative layer has a modulus of elasticity (tensile) of 2 3 GPa, more preferably ≤ 2 GPa, even more preferably ≤ 1.5 GPa, even more preferably ≤ 1 GPa and most preferably ≤ 0.5 GPa, but usually also ≥ 0.1 GPa.

[0091] An optional cover layer comprises or consists of a plastic, wax, or protein material, or a combination of rubber material and binder, or a mixture of the aforementioned. It essentially serves to protect a decorative layer arranged underneath from external influences such as moisture, abrasion, and / or radiation. It therefore preferably covers at least 50% of the surface of the underlying layer, preferably more than 70%, more preferably more than 80%, and most preferably more than 90%.

[0092] When very high demands are placed on strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance, plastic materials are preferred. According to the invention, this refers to all materials consisting of macromolecules of natural or synthetic origin.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment, the plastic comprises or consists of a material selected from the group consisting of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), polyamide (PA), polyester, in particular polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyurethane (PU), polyethylene oxides, polyphenylene oxides, thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), polyacetal, polyacrylate, poly(meth)acrylates, polyoxymethylene (POM), polyvinyl acetal, polystyrene (PS), acryloyl-butadiene-styrene (ABS), acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate (ASA), polysaccharides, in particular pectin and agar-agar, polycarbonates, polyethersulfones, polysulfonates, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyurea, formaldehyde resins, melamine resins, Polyether ketone, polyvinyl chloride, polylactide, polysiloxane, phenolic resins, epoxy resins, poly(imide), bismaleimide triazine, thermoplastic polyurethane, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polylactide (PLA),Polyhydrobutyric acid (PHB), copolymers, and / or mixtures of the aforementioned polymers. PE, PET, PU, ​​and PA are particularly preferred. The filler material itself—for example, in a single-layer configuration—may comprise or consist of one of the above materials. The plastic is preferably used in the form of a film. According to the invention, this refers to a flat plastic material produced in webs with a layer thickness of <5 mm, preferably <1 mm.

[0094] If high demands are placed on haptics, smell and appearance, a top layer made of protein material or wax is preferred.

[0095] For the purposes of the present invention, wax refers to natural or synthetically obtained substances that are malleable at 20°C, solid to brittle-hard, have a coarse to finely crystalline structure, are translucent to opaque in color but not glassy, ​​melt above 40°C without decomposition, are slightly liquid (i.e., slightly viscous) slightly above their melting point, have a consistency and solubility that is highly dependent on temperature, and are polishable under light pressure. This corresponds to the definition in the Römpp Chemie Lexikon, 10th edition, 1999, Georg Thieme Verlag.

[0096] Waxes can be divided into natural waxes, chemically modified waxes, and synthetic waxes. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the wax material is selected from the group of natural waxes, particularly preferably from the group of vegetable waxes, in particular candelilla wax, carnauba wax, Japan wax, esparto grass wax, cork wax, guaruma wax, rice germ oil wax, sugar cane wax, ouricury wax, and montan wax.

[0097] In another preferred embodiment, the natural wax is selected from the group consisting of animal waxes and mineral waxes, in particular from the group consisting of beeswax, shellac wax, spermaceti, lanolin (wool wax), rump grease, ceresin, ozokerite (earth wax).

[0098] Natural waxes offer the advantage that they are not petroleum-based and thus contribute to the sustainability and biodegradability of the layer composite.

[0099] In another embodiment, the wax is selected from the group consisting of chemically modified waxes or synthetic waxes, in particular from the group consisting of montan ester waxes, sasol waxes, paraffins, hydrogenated jojoba waxes, polyalkylene waxes, and polyethylene glycol waxes. In a further preferred embodiment, the optional top layer of the artificial leather comprises or consists of a protein material. These are preferably proteins of plant origin. Proteins found in lupins, soybeans, peas, linseed, wheat, corn, and / or rapeseed are particularly preferred.

[0100] In a further embodiment, the proteins are of animal origin, with gelatin, casein, whey proteins and / or their derivatives being particularly preferred.

[0101] The advantage of a protein top layer is that the production costs are very low and that it is harmless to health. The layer can also be processed without organic solvents, i.e., it is water-based. It is also worth emphasizing that the protein top layer is made from renewable raw materials that are biodegradable and self-adhesive.

[0102] In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the optional cover layer is 5 μm to 1 mm, more preferably 10 μm to 0.5 mm, particularly preferably 20 μm to 0.1 mm, most preferably 50 μm to 0.1 mm.

[0103] The optional top layer, like the decorative layer, can also contain additives such as dyes, UV filters, binders, or other fillers. The addition of additives and fillers can alter the properties of the layers, particularly color, strength, and manufacturing price.

[0104] In a preferred embodiment, the cover layer comprises or consists of a combination of a binder, preferably agar-agar, a gum material, preferably dextrin, and a humectant. Such a cover layer imparts particularly high scratch resistance to the layered composite. Furthermore, the cover layer can help improve the color fastness of the underlying layers.

[0105] The invention further encompasses various uses of the artificial leather according to the invention as well as articles comprising the artificial leather according to the invention.

[0106] The artificial leather is stable, lighter than animal leather, scratch-resistant, and water-repellent. Therefore, it can preferably be used as a material for clothing and fashion accessories. According to the invention, clothing refers to all materials that, as an artificial covering, surround the human body more or less tightly. This also includes headwear, especially hats and shoes. According to the invention, a fashion accessory refers to accessories for clothing. These are preferably belts, gloves, fans, parasols or umbrellas, bags, scarves, and jewelry, especially watch straps. All of these materials can comprise the artificial leather according to the invention.

[0107] The artificial leather can also be used for coverings and upholstery for furniture, particularly for automotive interiors. The present invention therefore also relates to coverings and upholstery comprising the artificial leather according to the invention. These are particularly preferably upholstery and coverings for the interiors of motor vehicles, in particular the upholstery of seats and instruments.

[0108] In a preferred embodiment, the binder of the artificial leather and / or the decorative layer has a transmission in the visible wavelength range of ≥ 30%, preferably ≥ 50%, more preferably ≥ 70%, and most preferably ≥ 90%. This allows the optical properties of the filler material, e.g., the tobacco or the inorganic salt, to emerge particularly well.

[0109] In a further preferred embodiment, the transmission of both the binder of the artificial leather and / or the transmission of the textile carrier layer and / or the binder of the decorative layer in the visible wavelength range is ≥ 30%, preferably ≥ 50%, more preferably ≥ 60%, and most preferably ≥ 80%. This makes it possible to obtain an artificial leather that can be backlit particularly well and thus can be used in various applications in the lighting sector, for example as a lampshade or in the interior of a motor vehicle.

[0110] The invention also includes a process for producing the artificial leather, which comprises the following steps:

[0111] A) Blending the following components to obtain a mixture of substances: i. a binder, ii. a filler material comprising an inorganic salt and / or a fiber material and / or lignin and / or a combination of plant leaf material and a gum material such as starch gum, and iii. a humectant, iv. optionally: organic or inorganic solvent.

[0112] B) Apply the mixture evenly to a non-stick surface. Optional: Dry the mixture, i.e., remove any solvent contained in the mixture until constant weight is achieved (i.e., less than 0.1% weight loss per hour when dried at 50 °C), preferably at a temperature ≥ 30 °C.

[0113] Optional: Remove the preferably dry mixture from the non-adherent surface.

[0114] The invention also includes a method for producing an artificial leather in the form of a layered composite, which comprises the following steps:

[0115] A) Applying the following components, preferably as a mixture, to a textile carrier layer in order to obtain a decorative layer arranged on the carrier layer, which preferably covers a flat side of the carrier layer by ≥ 90%: i. a binder, li. a filler material comprising an inorganic salt and / or lignin and / or a combination of plant leaf material and a gum material such as starch gum, and ill. a humectant, iv. optionally: organic or inorganic solvent.

[0116] Optional: Drying of the layer composite, ie removal of solvent contained in the layer composite, until constant weight (ie less than 0.1% weight loss per hour when drying at 50 °C) occurs, preferably at a temperature ≥ 30 °C.

[0117] According to the invention, application refers to the creation of a solid bond between the layers. This can be achieved, for example, by gluing, curing a layer, needling, or 3D printing.

[0118] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a transfer film is used in the manufacturing process.

[0119] In a preferred embodiment, an already cured layer, such as a cured, i.e. set, decorative layer, can be applied to the carrier layer. To produce a cured decorative layer, the above components can preferably be applied as a mixture to a non-adherent substrate in order to form a continuous layer. After the binder has set, e.g. by physical drying or chemical crosslinking, the resulting decorative layer is removed from the substrate and applied to the carrier layer. Application can be achieved by applying adhesive to the carrier layer and / or the already cured decorative layer, placing the decorative layer on the carrier layer and pressing the layers together, preferably under pressure. Alternatively and / or additionally, the layers can be needle-punched.

[0120] In another preferred embodiment, the binder can be applied to the textile carrier layer in its uncured form, so that after application it cures, i.e. solidifies, through physical (e.g., evaporation of a solvent) and / or chemical processes (e.g., crosslinking, polymerization, or oxidation), and a strong yet flexible decorative layer is formed. The binder is preferably applied to the textile carrier layer in a solvent that preferably also comprises the other components, i.e., filler material and humectant. The curing of the binder preferably takes place at a temperature of ≥ 30°C, particularly preferably ≥ 50°C.

[0121] The curing of the composition of binder, filler and humectant and the formation of the artificial leather and / or the decorative layer can also occur under the influence of elevated temperatures, pressure and / or radiation.

[0122] If the layer composite according to the invention is to have an optional cover layer, in a particularly preferred embodiment of the method, a polyethylene layer can be glued onto the decorative layer in a laminating system for paper products.

[0123] In another embodiment of the invention, a composition that is yet to be cured can be applied to the decorative layer, from which the optional top layer is formed. For example, one or more waxes can be applied to the decorative layer, which then cure on the decorative layer.

[0124] Curing of the composition and the formation of an optional top layer can also occur under the influence of elevated temperatures, pressure and / or radiation.

[0125] In another embodiment of the invention, the layers are additionally needled. Needled-punching the layers has the advantage of significantly increasing permeability, for example, to gases such as water vapor.

[0126] Since the carrier layer is usually supplied as a continuous web, the production of the layer composite can take place in a continuous process, which represents a significant advantage over the discontinuous process of animal leather production. The cover layers for screen printing commonly used in the textile sector have also been successfully tested as an optional cover layer. Cover layers produced from water-based mixing systems for textile printing are particularly preferred in this context. These water-based mixing systems comprise a water-based binder, in particular a synthetic resin dispersion binder, which preferably has a transparency of ≥ 80% and / or contains other components such as pigments, adhesion promoters, or fillers. Water-based mixing systems that are free of organic solvents or dispersants, phthalates, formaldehyde, alkylphenols, and alkylphenol ethoxylates are particularly preferred.The water-based mixing systems are preferably label-free, non-toxic and skin-friendly.

[0127] After application to the decorative layer, the water-based mixed systems are preferably dried with heat and then heat-set at a temperature of 150-160°C. Setting can be done with a transfer press, a drying tunnel, a hot air gun, an iron, a press, or in an oven. The setting time at the above temperatures is 2-3 minutes.

[0128] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the manufacturing process is carried out as described below. First, the carrier layer is transported through rollers. In a subsequent section, a mixture of uncured binders, filler material, and humectant is applied to the carrier layer, dried, and optionally pressed. An additional cover layer can also be provided. If the cover layer is a plastic material in the form of a film, it can be adhered using a heated calender.

[0129] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the process for producing the artificial leather in the form of a layered composite comprises at least one, preferably all of the following additional process steps:

[0130] B) dissolving and / or dispersing the filler material, the binder and the humectant in one or more aqueous solvents and / or dispersants before application to the carrier layer,

[0131] C) Removing the one or more aqueous solvents and / or dispersion agents after application to the carrier or cover layer, preferably at elevated temperature and / or reduced pressure, so that the decorative layer is formed. Optional:

[0132] D) needling and / or gluing at least two layers of the composite layer,

[0133] E) Embossing the decorative layer, preferably with a roller, calender or press.

[0134] In a preferred embodiment, steps A) to E) are carried out in the order A), B), C), D), E).

[0135] Embossing the decorative layer influences the surface structure, creating a layer that visually resembles a natural leather layer. Such structuring can also be useful for concealing imperfections in the decorative layer. Embossing of this kind is particularly advantageous when lignin or inorganic salts are used as filler, as this can disrupt the generally relatively uniform appearance of the decorative layer.

[0136] In a preferred embodiment, the humectant may be the one or more aqueous solvents and / or dispersants.

[0137] In a preferred embodiment of the method, in which a combination of plant leaf material and rubber material is used as the filler material, adhesive is applied to the plant leaf material and / or the carrier layer before the filler material is applied to the textile carrier layer. This allows a particularly strong bond between the carrier and decorative layer to be achieved.

[0138] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the layers of the composite are pressed under increased pressure, wherein the pressing takes place in a transfer press and / or using elevated temperatures.

[0139] In a preferred embodiment of the process, the aqueous solvent or dispersant comprises the binder, which is preferably selected from the group consisting of polysaccharides, in particular agar-agar, pectin, xanthan, natural and synthetic resins, gelatin, alginate, chitosan, cellulose ethers, modified starch, glue or mixtures of the aforementioned. Due to the binder, the composition of filler material, binder, humectant and solvent has a higher viscosity during this production process. This makes it easier to apply it to the carrier layer. This effect is particularly pronounced when the solvent or dispersant is a mixture of water and a polyhydric alcohol, in particular glycerol. In a preferred embodiment of the process, the aqueous solvent orThe dispersant therefore contains an alcohol, preferably a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerin, glycol, polyethylene glycol or polyethylene oxide.

[0140] EXAMPLES

[0141] The invention will now be further explained with reference to concrete embodiments of artificial leathers according to the invention, in particular in the form of layered composites3, production examples and with reference to the attached figures.

[0142] In the following initial versions, the synthetic leather is designed in the form of a layered composite comprising layers of the materials listed in the respective lines. The layers or the filling material comprise or consist of the material listed in the respective lines.

[0143] 1. Versions with a combination of plant leaf material and rubber material as filling material of the decorative layer

[0144] The binding agent in subsequent layered composites is preferably agar-agar. The humectant is preferably glycerin. . Versions with lignin as filler material for the decorative layer . Versions with inorganic salt as filler material for the decorative layer (optionally containing humectants such as a polyhydric alcohol or a polyol).

[0145] 4. Versions with different decorative layers

[0146] The binding agent in subsequent layered composites is preferably agar-agar. The humectant is preferably glycerin.

[0147] 5. Versions with additional layers. The binding agent in subsequent layered composites is preferably agar-agar. The humectant is preferably glycerin.

[0148]

[0149] 6. Single-layer versions In the following versions, the artificial leather is designed in the form of a single-layer material, which has subsequent filling material and binding agent and optionally a fiber material, in particular a hemp fiber material.

[0150]

[0151] In the following embodiments, the artificial leather is in the form of a single-layer material comprising a binder and, in addition, a fiber material, the form of which is specified below. The fiber material is preferably a hemp fiber material.

[0152] In the following versions, the artificial leather is in the form of a single-layer material, which has a subsequent binding agent and additionally a fiber material as well as another filling material.

[0153]

[0154]

[0155] In the following embodiments, the artificial leather is in the form of a single-layer material which comprises a subsequent binder and additionally a fiber material, the form of the fiber material being defined as follows.

[0156]

[0157] Production example 1

[0158] 50 g of rose petals are dispersed in 50 ml of a mixture of glycerol, dextrin and agar in water and, after decanting the solvent or dispersant, are applied to a section of a flax fleece with a grammage of 100 g / m 2 The aqueous solvent or dispersant is removed by air drying at 50°C to obtain a uniform decorative layer on the carrier layer.

[0159] Production Example 2: 50 g of flax short fibers are dispersed in 50 ml of a mixture of glycerol, dextrin, and agar in water. After decanting the solvent or dispersant, the mixture is applied to a non-adherent surface. The aqueous solvent or dispersant is removed by air drying at 50°C to obtain a uniform layer of artificial leather.

[0160] Production example 3

[0161] Fifty grams of iron oxide are dispersed in 50 ml of a mixture of glycerol, dextrin, and agar in water. After decanting the solvent or dispersant, the mixture is applied to a non-stick surface. The aqueous solvent or dispersant is removed by air drying at 50 °C to obtain a uniform layer of artificial leather.

[0162] Short description of the figure:

[0163] Fig. 1: schematic sectional view of an artificial leather according to the invention in the form of a layer composite with carrier and decorative layer.

[0164] Fig. 2: schematic sectional view of an artificial leather according to the invention in the form of a layer composite with carrier, decorative and cover layer.

[0165] Fig. 3: schematic sectional view of an artificial leather according to the invention in the form of a layer composite with carrier, decorative, 2nd decorative and cover layer.

[0166] Fig. 4: schematic sectional view of an artificial leather according to the invention in the form of a single-layer material.

[0167] List of reference symbols:

[0168] 1 carrier layer

[0169] 2 decorative layer (inorganic salt as filler)

[0170] 3 Top layer

[0171] 4 2nd decorative layer (tobacco and dextrin as filling material)

[0172] 5 Single-layer synthetic leather

[0173] Detailed description of the figure:

[0174] Fig. 1 shows the layer structure of a layer composite according to the invention, which has a carrier layer 1 and a decorative layer 2. The decorative layer 2 comprises an inorganic salt as a filler material. Fig. 2 shows the layer structure of a layer composite according to the invention, which has a carrier layer 1, a decorative layer 2 and a cover layer 3. The decorative layer 2 comprises an inorganic salt as a filler material. Fig. 3 shows the layer structure of a layer composite according to the invention, which has a carrier layer 1, a decorative layer 2, a cover layer 3 and an additional second decorative layer 4, which is arranged between the decorative layer 2 and the cover layer 3. The decorative layer 2 comprises an inorganic salt as a filler material. The additional second decorative layer comprises a combination of tobacco and dextrin as a filler material. The cover layer 3 has been connected to the second decorative layer by an adhesive (indicated by drops).

[0175] Fig. 4 shows a single-layer version of an artificial leather according to the invention. The layer comprises an inorganic salt as a filler material.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Artificial leather comprising the following components: i. a binder, ii. a filling material comprising an inorganic salt and / or a fiber material and / or lignin and / or a combination of plant leaf material and a rubber material, and iii. optionally: a humectant.

2. Artificial leather according to claim 1, wherein the artificial leather comprises a humectant selected from the group consisting of glycerin, polydextrose, sorbitol, polyhydric alcohols and polyalcohols such as 1,2-propanediol, glycol or alditols, aloe vera gel, honey, lithium chloride, molasses, xylitol, hydroxycarboxylic acids, triacetin, quillaja extract, urea, pantolactone or mixtures of the aforementioned.

3. Artificial leather according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inorganic salt is selected from the group consisting of iron oxide, titanium dioxide, chalk, kaolin, marble flour, basalt flour, slate, clays and zeolite.

4. Artificial leather according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the gum material is selected from gum arabic, gum tragacanth, gum karaya and gum starch.

5. Artificial leather according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the binder is a native, bio-based and / or biodegradable polymer.

6. Artificial leather according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the binder is selected from the group consisting of collagen, proteins, polysaccharides, agar-agar, agarose, chitosan, pectin, xanthan, natural and synthetic resins, gelatin, alginate, cellulose ethers, modified starch, glue or mixtures of the aforementioned.

7. Artificial leather according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight ratio of binder to filler material is in the range of 1:10 to 10:1, preferably 1:2 to 2:

1.

8. Artificial leather according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight ratio of binder to humectant is in the range of 1:10 to 10:1, preferably 1:2 to 2:

1.

9. Artificial leather according to one of the preceding claims, wherein it has a single- or multi-layer structure.

10. Artificial leather according to claim 9, wherein the artificial leather has a multi-layer structure and comprises one or more adhesive layers.

11. Artificial leather according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fiber material is at least partially in the form of a nonwoven fabric, preferably flax nonwoven fabric, and / or a woven fabric, preferably natural fiber, synthetic fiber, or mixed fabric.

12. Artificial leather according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fiber material comprises or consists of a natural fiber.

13. A garment comprising an artificial leather according to any one of the preceding claims.

Images