Method for producing a nanometric lubricating composition for tanned hide

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing a nanometric lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from oils composed of one or more types of animal or vegetable oil, and to the use thereof to lubricate tanned animal hide (leather) so as to improve the flexibility and softness of the tanned animal hide (leather).

Description

[0001] METHOD FOR THE PREPARATION OF A NANOMETRIC LUBRICANT COMPOSITION FOR TANNED LEATHER.

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention pertains to the technical field of animal leather tanning. Specifically, the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a nanomaterial lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from animal or vegetable oils and its use for lubricating tanned leather.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Currently, various techniques are used in the state of the art to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal hide (leather). Some of these techniques are: Oiling, where oils or fats are applied to the leather to help lubricate the fibers, improve its flexibility, soften the leather, and keep it moisturized; Mechanical softening, where rollers, presses, or specialized machines are used to apply pressure and friction to the leather, breaking down the fibers and making them more flexible, soft, and malleable; Chemical treatments, where specific chemicals, such as lubricating agents, are applied to help improve the flexibility and softness of the leather.These products can penetrate the leather fibers and help relax them, making the leather more flexible; Heat treatments: Some softening processes involve using heat to relax the leather fibers and make them more pliable, including the use of steam or dry heat to soften the leather and improve its flexibility; Stretching: Leather can be mechanically stretched to break down the fibers and improve its flexibility. This process may involve using special tools to stretch the leather in different directions; Hydration: Keeping leather properly hydrated can help improve its flexibility and softness. This can be achieved by regularly applying leather conditioners or moisturizers specifically designed for leather. These techniques can be used individually or in combination, depending on the type of leather and the desired result.

[0006] Specifically, chemical treatment is one of the most widely used techniques for improving the flexibility and softness of tanned animal hide (leather), as it is incorporated into the processes, machinery, and equipment used in drum tanning. The chemical treatment process for leather includes the following steps: Chemical Selection, where the appropriate chemicals are carefully selected for the type of leather and the desired outcome. These may include leather softeners, lubricants, wetting agents, and conditioners specifically designed to improve the leather's flexibility and softness; and Treatment Bath Preparation, where a chemical solution is prepared using the selected products, and the concentration is adjusted according to the specific needs of the leather.This solution is used as a treatment bath in which the leather is immersed; Leather Immersion: The leather is completely submerged in the chemical treatment bath and left to soak for a specific period of time. The duration of the treatment can vary depending on the type of leather and the desired results; Penetration and Chemical Action: During the immersion process, the chemicals penetrate the leather fibers and perform various actions. For example, softeners can relax the fibers and reduce the stiffness of the leather, while lubricants help reduce friction between the fibers, improving flexibility; Rinsing and Drying: Once the chemical treatment is complete, the leather is removed from the bath and thoroughly rinsed to remove any chemical residue. It is then left to air dry or dried using specialized equipment, ensuring that the shape and integrity of the leather are maintained during the drying process.Conditioning and Finishing: Once the leather is completely dry, a leather conditioner can be applied to moisturize and protect it, as well as to improve its softness and suppleness. Other finishes, such as polishing, dyeing, or coating, can also be performed as needed to achieve the desired final result. Leather softeners are chemical products designed to relax the leather fibers and reduce stiffness. These products typically contain emollients and humectants that help restore the leather's natural flexibility.Some common softeners include: Natural emollients, such as vegetable oils, lanolin, or natural waxes, which penetrate the leather fibers, helping to lubricate and soften them; Silicones, which are used to provide a protective coating on the surface of the leather, improving its water resistance and increasing its softness; and Polymers, such as polyethylene glycol, which act as lubricants to reduce friction between the leather fibers, improving its flexibility and softness.

[0007] Leather moisturizers are used to retain moisture in leather and prevent it from drying out and cracking. These products contain hydrating agents that help retain the leather's natural moisture, improving its flexibility and softness. Some common moisturizers include: Glycerin, which acts as a humectant by absorbing and retaining moisture in the leather fibers, preventing them from drying out and becoming brittle; Propylene glycol, similar to glycerin, is a wetting agent that helps retain moisture in leather and improve its flexibility; and Sodium hyaluronate, which is a high molecular weight humectant used to deeply moisturize leather and improve its softness and elasticity.

[0008] Leather lubricants are used to reduce friction between leather fibers, making it easier to handle and shape. These products often contain slip agents that improve the leather's malleability. Some common lubricants include: Mineral oils, which are fatty liquids applied to leather to reduce friction between fibers, making it easier to handle and softening its texture. These are typically petroleum-derived fatty oils widely used as lubricants in leather. These oils have high viscosity and provide effective lubrication to reduce friction between leather fibers; Glycerin, a humectant that also acts as a lubricant by penetrating the leather fibers and reducing stiffness; and Silicones, chemical compounds used as lubricants due to their low viscosity and high slip properties.They are especially useful for reducing friction on smooth surfaces and improving the malleability of leather; and natural waxes, such as beeswax or carnauba wax, are used as lubricants on leather. These waxes provide a protective and lubricating layer on the surface of the leather, reducing friction and improving its softness.

[0009] The use of chemical treatments to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal hides (leather), especially using softeners, humectants, and lubricants, presents technical challenges such as: Chemical Compatibility, since chemicals used to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned hides must be compatible with other chemicals used in the leather tanning process, such as tanning agents, dyes, and finishes, to avoid unwanted reactions or adverse effects on leather quality; and Lubrication Effectiveness. Lubricants must provide effective lubrication to facilitate leather processing, such as cutting, stretching, and pressing, without compromising the material's physical and mechanical properties.This can be verified by performing final softness tests on the treated leather; Application Uniformity: It is important to achieve a uniform application across the entire surface of the leather to ensure consistent results and avoid problems such as staining or poorly lubricated areas; Thermal Stability: Lubricants must maintain their thermal stability throughout the tanning process, including heat treatment stages, to prevent degradation and ensure their effectiveness; Resistance to Cross-Contamination: The chemicals used must be resistant to cross-contamination with other materials or chemicals present in the production environment to avoid adverse effects on leather quality; Ease of Removal: Some chemicals can leave residues on the leather after the tanning process, which can affect the quality of the final finish.It is important to select softeners, wetting agents, and lubricants that are easy to remove during the washing and finishing stages.

[0010] To address these technical challenges in the prior art, several patent documents describe various leather lubricant compositions, such as CN105779670A, which describes the formulation of an emulsion wax for leather finishing, particularly for lubrication. The wax emulsion can be used to improve softness and water resistance. The emulsion does not contain benzene compounds and is composed of a mixture of oxidized polyethylene wax, wood wax, beeswax, paraffin wax, glycerin, sodium hydroxide, ionic surfactants such as sodium lauryl sulfate, oleic acid, sodium stearate, sodium palmitate, and sodium oleate.While the present invention describes the formulation of an emulsion for leather lubrication based on a wax mixture, it does not describe examples where the advantages of increased softness resulting from lubrication with these waxes in the leather finish (lubrication effectiveness) can be verified; likewise, its thermal stability, chemical compatibility, and ease of removal are not described. Regarding the level of application uniformity, it is known that emulsions can undergo phase separation or coalescence over time, resulting in an uneven distribution of the active components and reduced lubricant effectiveness on the leather.Likewise, emulsions containing surfactants, as is the case of the present invention which uses ionic surfactants, contribute to the drying of the leather due to the degreasing action that results in a loss of flexibility and softness in the treated leather, which reduces its quality and durability in the long term.

[0011] Also known is patent document WO2016081433A1, which discloses a composition for treating leather and similar materials. The composition consists of a mixture of oils and waxes obtained from natural sources and water. The present disclosure also provides a method for treating a leather article and a process for preparing an emulsion composition. While the present invention describes a lubricant formulation based on a mixture of waxes and natural oils, it does not describe examples where the advantages of increased softness resulting from lubrication with these waxes in leather finishing (lubrication effectiveness) can be observed; likewise, it does not describe its level of application uniformity, thermal stability, chemical compatibility, or ease of removal.

[0012] US patent 6242559B1 is also known, disclosing methods for the polymerization and functionalization of hydroxyfatty acids to provide surface-active agents. These surface-active agents can be nonionic, cationic, anionic, or amphoteric for use in various industries, including the treatment and lubrication of tanned leather. The invention, in its examples, describes these hydroxyfatty acids as hydrophilic at pH 5.5, having a particle size of 1100 nm, and, compared to other commercially available leather softeners, exhibiting superior surface softness with greater sealing and lubrication effectiveness. However, the present invention does not describe the level of application uniformity, thermal stability, chemical compatibility, or ease of removal.

[0013] Therefore, the prior art does not yet include a method for manufacturing a nanomaterial lubricating composition for tanned animal hide (leather) based on the formation of fatty acid salts from animal or vegetable oils, composed of particles smaller than 1000 nm. Similarly, the prior art also lacks a chemical treatment method that uses a nanomaterial lubricating composition to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal hide (leather), while maintaining thermal stability, improved lubrication effectiveness, ease of removal, and uniform application.

[0014] OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0015] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a method of manufacturing a nanomethicone lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from animal or vegetable oils.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a nanomethicone lubricating composition to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal skin (leather).

[0017] An additional object of the present invention is to provide a nanomaterial lubricating composition to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal skin (leather) that maintains thermal stability during its application even under conditions of high humidity and temperature.

[0018] Another additional object of the present invention is to provide a nanomethicone lubricating composition to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal skin (leather) with better lubrication effectiveness than other types of lubricants known in the prior art.

[0019] Yet another additional object of the present invention is to provide a nanomaterial lubricating composition to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal skin (leather) that allows maintaining chemical compatibility with the other chemicals used during the leather tanning process.

[0020] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a nanomaterial lubricating composition to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal skin (leather) that allows for easy removal in the washing and finishing stages after use.

[0021] A further object of the present invention is to provide a nanomethicone lubricating composition to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal skin (leather) that allows for uniform application on the skin to be lubricated.

[0022] Another object of the invention is to provide a chemical treatment method for lubricating tanned skin (leather).

[0023] A further object of the present invention is to obtain a lubricated tanned skin (leather) used by the nanomethicone lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from animal or vegetable oils.

[0024] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] These and other objectives are achieved by a method for producing a nanometric lubricating composition to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal skin (leather), wherein said method comprises the steps of: i) Selecting an oil solution of animal or vegetable origin; ii) Adding the previously selected animal or vegetable oil solution to a reaction tank in a proportion of 54.9%-64.3% w / w; iii) Adding to said reaction tank an alkaline hydroxide compound of general formula HO- diluted to 50% w / w with water, in a proportion of 2.25-4.95% w / w; iv) Stirring said mixture at a speed of 1000 rpm for 15 minutes; v) Adding to the mixture an acid compound in a proportion of 0.1-0.3% w / w; vi) Adding to the mixture sorbitol in a proportion of 0.5%-20% w / w, maintaining stirring at a speed of 1000 rpm for 15 min; vii) Add to the mixture Ethyl alcohol in a proportion of 1%-2% w / w; viii) Increase the stirring speed to 1600 rpm for 40 minutes; ix) Add to the mixture water in a proportion of 12.66%-35.01% w / w; x) Remove the product from the previous mixture which is a nanometric lubricating composition containing particles with a size range of 100 nm-800 nm.

[0026] In a second aspect, the invention relates to a nanometric lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from animal or vegetable oils, wherein said lubricating composition contains particles with a size range of 100-800nm ​​and wherein said lubricating composition is used as a lubricant to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal skin (leather), maintains thermal stability, allows lubrication effectiveness, chemical compatibility, ease of removal and uniformity of application on the leather.

[0027] In a third aspect, the invention relates to a method for lubricating tanned hide (leather), wherein said method comprises the steps of: i) Selecting a previously tanned animal hide to carry out the lubrication process, from among the common types used in the leather tanning industry, such as cowhide, calfskin, goatskin, pigskin, sheepskin, lambskin, and other exotic hides such as ostrich, crocodile, or snakeskin, considering the desired properties of the final leather; ii) Placing the hide produced by the tanning process inside a rotating drum; iii) Adding to the rotating drum the nanometric lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts containing particles with a size range of 100 nm-800 nm in a proportion of 1%-10% w / w weight / weight per kilogram of hide to be lubricated, maintaining an agitation of 10 rpm for a time of 60-90 minutes to allow penetration and reduce friction between the fibers of the leather;iv) Adjust the pH to 3.6 using Formic Acid at a ratio of 1%-2% w / w weight / weight per kilogram of hide to be lubricated, for 20-39 minutes at 10 rpm to promote the closure of the hide fibers; v) Remove the lubricated hide from the rotating drum.

[0028] The additional features and advantages of the invention should be more clearly understood by means of a detailed description of the preferred embodiment thereof, given by means of several non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[0029] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0030] Figure 1 shows the results of the determination of the particle size of the nanometric lubricant composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts obtained from different oil solutions through the dynamic light scattering (DLS) methodology.

[0031] Figure 2 shows a comparative table of the result obtained from the VLC index test of the leather bond (VLC) for lubricated leathers.

[0032] Figure 3 shows the results of tear tests performed on various groups of lubricated leathers using the nanometric lubricant composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] The first aspect of the present invention relates to a method for producing a nanometric lubricating composition to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal skin (leather), where the properties and advantages of the present invention will be evident to a person skilled in the art from its manufacturing method, which consists of the following main steps: i) Selecting an oil solution of animal or vegetable origin;

[0034] i) Add to a reaction tank the previously selected animal or vegetable oil solution, in a proportion of 54.9%-64.3% w / w; iii) Add to said reaction tank an alkali hydroxide compound of general formula HO- diluted to 50% w / w with water, in a proportion of 2.25-4.95% w / w; iv) Stir said mixture at a speed of 1000 rpm for 15 minutes; v) Add to the mixture an acid compound in a proportion of 0.1-0.3% w / w; vi) Add to the mixture sorbitol in a proportion of 0.5%-20% w / w, maintaining stirring at a speed of 1000 rpm for 15 minutes; vi i) Add to the mixture ethyl alcohol in a proportion of 1%-2% w / w; viii) Increase the stirring speed to 1600 rpm for 40 minutes; ix) Add water to the mixture in a proportion of 12.66%-35.01% w / wy; x) Remove the product from the previous mixture, which is a nanometric lubricating composition containing particles with a size range of 100 nm-800 nm.

[0035] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a nanometric lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from animal or vegetable oils, wherein said lubricating composition contains particles with a size range of 100-800nm ​​and wherein said lubricating composition is used as a lubricant to improve the flexibility and softness of tanned animal skin (leather), maintains thermal stability, allows lubrication effectiveness, chemical compatibility, ease of removal and uniformity of application on the leather.

[0036] In a third aspect, the invention relates to a method for lubricating tanned skin (leather), wherein said method comprises the steps of: i) Selecting a previously tanned animal skin to carry out the lubrication process, from among the common types used in the leather tanning industry, such as cowhide, calfskin, goatskin, pigskin, sheepskin, lambskin and other exotic skins such as ostrich, crocodile or snakeskin, considering the desired properties of the final leather;

[0037] i) Place the tanned leather inside a rotating drum; iii) Add to the rotating drum the nanomethicone lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts containing particles with a size range of 100 nm-800 nm in a proportion of 1%-10% w / w weight / weight per kilogram of leather to be lubricated, maintaining an agitation of 10 rpm for a time of 60-90 minutes to allow penetration and reduce friction between the leather fibers; iv) Adjust the pH to 3.6 using Formic Acid in a proportion of 1%-2% w / w weight / weight per kilogram of leather to be lubricated, for 20-39 minutes at 10 rpm to promote fiber closure and fixation of the additive within the leather; and v) Remove the lubricated leather from the rotating drum.

[0038] The formulation of the nanomethicone lubricant composition of the present invention is based on the reaction of triglycerides present in vegetable and animal oils with a strong alkaline hydroxide base, such as potassium or sodium hydroxide. This reaction, at the molecular level, breaks the ester bonds present in the triglycerides, releasing fatty acids and forming fatty acid salts. When carried out at the nanomethicone level, this reaction can lead to the formation of fatty acid salt particles with special properties due to their reduced size and increased specific surface area.

[0039] In the context of leather tanning, the application of nanoparticles of fatty acid salts derived from animal or vegetable oils improves the lubrication of tanned leather by facilitating the penetration, dispersion, and lubricating action of the particles within the leather's collagen fibers. This enhanced penetration and dispersion are achieved due to the nanoparticle size, which allows them to penetrate the leather fibers more easily and disperse uniformly throughout the collagen matrix. Friction is reduced by lubricating the collagen fibers, thus minimizing friction and improving the leather's flexibility and softness. This lubricating action also provides greater stability, as it creates a thin, stable layer on the leather's surface, offering long-lasting lubrication that is resistant to washing.

[0040] In order to demonstrate the capabilities of the method for lubricating tanned leather using the nanomethicone lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from animal or vegetable oils, the following physicochemical tests were carried out:

[0041] Dynamic light scattering test. (Particle size).

[0042] To characterize the nanomethicone lubricant composition of the present invention, dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques were used to determine the particle size present in the various oil solutions. Sample preparation for the dynamic light scattering technique was as follows: A 500 g sample was taken for each of the nanomethicone lubricant compositions, based on the formation of acid salts from single-oil solutions (100% castor oil solution, sample A) or a mixture of more than one oil type (25% corn, 25% canola, and 50% soybean oil, sample B). The moisture content of the sample was then measured, which was 0.01% (the permissible limit is 0.5%). Each sample was then pulverized using a porcelain mortar and pestle. 100 mg of the pulverized sample was mixed with 1 mL of isopropyl alcohol.The mixture was stirred manually and 50 microliters of the mixed composition were taken and made up to a volume of 150 microliters of isopropyl alcohol.

[0043] With regard to Figure 1, we can observe a particle size distribution between 100 and 800, thus verifying its nanomethicone distribution and size. Sample A shows the particle size distribution of the nanomethicone lubricant composition based on the formation of acid salts from single-oil solutions, specifically a 100% castor oil solution. Sample B shows the particle size distribution of the nanomethicone lubricant composition based on the formation of acid salts from oil solutions, specifically a mixture of more than one oil type composed of 25% corn, 25% canola, and 50% soybean oil.

[0044] Leather League (VLC) Assessment Test (Softness).

[0045] The Leather Bond Rating (BBR) test is a standard procedure used to evaluate the softness of tanned animal hides. The test involves using a specific measuring instrument called a ball penetrometer or stiffness gauge to determine the leather's resistance to penetration or bending. During the test, a controlled force is applied to the leather's surface, and the amount of force required to penetrate or bend the leather a certain distance or angle is recorded. The force needed to achieve penetration or bending is related to the leather's softness.

[0046] In order to compare the capacity of the method for lubricating tanned leather using the nanomethicone lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from animal or vegetable oils of the present invention, a leather bonding (VLC) evaluation test was carried out on previously tanned bovine hides, lubricating said tanned hides using a universal lubricant, composed of 30% w / w Castor Oil, 15% Beeswax, 10% Silicone, 5% Ethyl Alcohol, 35% Distilled Water, 0.5% Sodium Benzoate and 4.5% Vanilla Essence as fragrance, and others lubricated with the method and the nanomethicone lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from Castor Oil with a particle size of 700 nm of the present invention.

[0047] This test was carried out by selecting a total of 60 leather samples, divided into two groups of 30 samples each. Group A corresponds to leathers lubricated with a universal lubricant with the previously mentioned composition, while group B corresponds to leathers lubricated with a nanometric lubricant composition based on fatty acid salts derived from castor oil with a particle size of 700 nm.

[0048] The lubrication process for both groups was carried out using the following general method: 1 kg of the previously selected tanned animal hide was placed inside a rotating drum. For group A, 0.07 kg of universal lubricant was added to the rotating drum. This lubricant consisted of: 30% w / w castor oil, 15% beeswax, 10% silicone, 5% ethyl alcohol, 35% distilled water, 0.5% sodium benzoate, and 4.5% vanilla essence as fragrance. For group B, 0.07 kg of a nanometric lubricant composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from castor oil was added, with a particle size of 700 nm. Agitation was performed at 10 rpm for 60 minutes to allow penetration and reduce friction between the leather fibers. The pH was adjusted to 3.6 using 0.01 Kg Formic Acid, for 20 minutes at 10 rpm to promote the closure of skin fibers; the lubricated skin was removed from the rotating drum.

[0049] The leather bond strength (VLC) test was performed by first conditioning all pre-lubricated samples in a controlled environment with a specific relative humidity of 13% for 20 minutes. For each leather sample, a softness measurement was taken using a ball penetrometer. A controlled force was applied to the leather surface, and the amount of force required to penetrate the leather a specific distance was recorded. This procedure was repeated for all samples in both groups.

[0050] Once all measurements were completed, the average VLC value was calculated for each group of samples. This value represents the average softness of the leathers in each group. The average VLC values ​​between the two groups were compared to determine if there were significant differences in softness between the leathers lubricated with universal lubricant and those lubricated with the nanometric lubricant composition. Figure 2 shows that the average VLC value for the leathers lubricated with universal lubricant is 2.4 ± 2, and the average VLC value for the leathers lubricated with the nanometric lubricant composition is 2.9 ± 2.

[0051] These results show that leathers lubricated with the castor oil-based nanométhca lubricant composition with a particle size of 700 nm have greater softness compared to leathers lubricated with universal lubricant.

[0052] Tear test (resistance).

[0053] The tear test is commonly used to evaluate leather's tensile strength and determine its quality. During the test, a cut is made in the leather sample, and a gradually increasing force is applied to determine its resistance to tearing. The results of this test provide important information about the leather's durability and strength, helping to ensure its suitability for various uses, from footwear and apparel manufacturing to upholstery and leather goods.

[0054] To evaluate the resistance of the lubrication method for tanned leather using the nanomethicone lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from animal or vegetable oils of the present invention, a tear test was performed on previously tanned bovine hides. These hides were lubricated using 0.07 kg of a nanomethicone lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from castor oil with a particle size of 700 nm. In the first group (#1), the lubricating composition was manufactured using 5% sorbitol; in the second group (#2), 10% sorbitol; and in the third group (#3), 20% sorbitol. Rectangular samples of lubricated leather with standardized dimensions were cut from each group. The samples were then firmly held in a tear test device.A gradually increasing force was applied to each sample, starting from an initial force and increasing to a final force; finally, the maximum force required to break each sample was recorded. The initial and final force values ​​were recorded for each group, and the mean tear strength was calculated for each group.

[0055] For group #1, the average initial force applied was 8 kg and the average final force was 10.5 kg; for group #2, the average initial force was 6.8 kg and the average final force was 10 kg; and for group #3, the average initial force was 5.7 kg and the average final force was 8.4 kg. The results between the three groups are compared to evaluate the effect of the percentage of sorbitol on the tear resistance of lubricated leather.

[0056] With regard to Figure 3, it can be observed that as the percentage of sorbitol in the lubricating composition increases, the initial and final force required to tear the leather decreases. This suggests that a higher sorbitol content in the lubricating composition can result in a reduction of the leather's tear resistance, thus demonstrating the versatility that can be achieved in relation to leather resistance by using different percentages of sorbitol in the formulation of the nanomethicone lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from animal or vegetable oils of the present invention. This highlights the importance of balancing softness with tear resistance in the manufacture of high-quality leather products.

[0057] Having described the invention in general terms, the following are some examples of the manufacturing methods for the nanométhca lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from animal or vegetable oils and of the method for lubricating tanned leather using the nanométhca lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from animal or vegetable oils, which serve only to illustrate the procedure and are not intended to be limiting in any way; EXAMPLES

[0058] Example 1. Preparation of 1 Kg of nanometric lubricant composition based on corn oil.

[0059] Add 0.549 kg of an oil solution composed of 100% corn oil to a reaction tank. Then add 0.049 kg of potassium hydroxide diluted 50% with water to the same tank and stir at 1000 rpm for 15 minutes. Add 0.001 kg of acetic acid to the reaction tank. While maintaining stirring at 1000 rpm, add 0.040 kg of sorbitol and 0.010 kg of ethyl alcohol. After 15 minutes, increase the stirring speed to 1600 rpm and maintain it for 40 minutes. Finally, add 0.350 kg of water. The final product is a nanometric lubricant composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts with a particle size of 550 nm.

[0060] Example 2. Preparation of 1 Kg of nanometric lubricant composition based on olive oil.

[0061] Add 0.615 kg of an oil solution composed of 100% olive oil to a reaction tank. Then add 0.034 kg of potassium hydroxide diluted 50% with water to the same tank and stir at 1000 rpm for 15 minutes. Add 0.003 kg of acetic acid to the reaction tank. While maintaining stirring at 1000 rpm, add 0.100 kg of sorbitol and 0.010 kg of ethyl alcohol. After 15 minutes, increase the stirring speed to 1600 rpm and maintain it for 40 minutes. Finally, add 0.238 kg of water. The final product is a nanometric lubricant composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts with a particle size of 500 nm.

[0062] Example 3. Preparation of 1 Kg of nanometric lubricant composition based on Soybean oil

[0063] Add 0.643 kg of an oil solution composed of 100% soybean oil to a reaction tank. Then add 0.023 kg of potassium hydroxide diluted 50% with water to the same tank and stir at 1000 rpm for 15 minutes. Add 0.001 kg of acetic acid to the reaction tank. While maintaining stirring at 1000 rpm, add 0.032 kg of sorbitol and 0.020 kg of ethyl alcohol. After 15 minutes, increase the stirring speed to 1600 rpm and maintain it for 40 minutes. Finally, add 0.281 kg of water. The final product is a nanometric lubricant composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts with a particle size of 400 nm.

[0064] Example 4. Preparation of 1 Kg of nanometric lubricant composition based on Palm oil.

[0065] Add 0.635 kg of an oil solution composed of 100% palm oil to a reaction tank. Then add 0.029 kg of potassium hydroxide diluted 50% with water to the same tank and stir at 1000 rpm for 15 minutes. Add 0.001 kg of acetic acid to the reaction tank. While maintaining stirring at 1000 rpm, add 0.025 kg of sorbitol and 0.010 kg of ethyl alcohol. After 15 minutes, increase the stirring speed to 1600 rpm and maintain it for 40 minutes. Finally, add 0.3 kg of water. The final product is a nanometric lubricant composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts with a particle size of 450 nm.

[0066] Example 5. Preparation of 1 Kg of nanometric lubricant composition based on castor oil.

[0067] Add 0.629 kg of an oil solution composed of 100% castor oil to a reaction tank. Then add 0.038 kg of potassium hydroxide diluted 50% with water to the same tank and stir at 1000 rpm for 15 minutes. Add 0.001 kg of acetic acid to the reaction tank. While maintaining stirring at 1000 rpm, add 0.005 kg of sorbitol and 0.020 kg of ethyl alcohol. After 15 minutes, increase the stirring speed to 1600 rpm and maintain it for 40 minutes. Finally, add 0.307 kg of water. The final product is a nanometric lubricant composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts with a particle size of 700 nm. Example 6. Preparation of 1 Kg of nanometric lubricating composition based on Fish oil.

[0068] Add 0.612 kg of a 100% fish oil solution to a reaction tank. Then add 0.040 kg of potassium hydroxide diluted 50% with water to the same tank and stir at 1000 rpm for 15 minutes. Add 0.001 kg of acetic acid to the reaction tank. While maintaining stirring at 1000 rpm, add 0.024 kg of sorbitol and 0.010 kg of ethyl alcohol. After 15 minutes, increase the stirring speed to 1600 rpm and maintain it for 40 minutes. Finally, add 0.313 kg of water. The final product is a nanometric lubricant composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts with a particle size of 500 nm.

[0069] Example 7. Preparation of 1 Kg of nanometric lubricant composition based on Cod Liver oil.

[0070] Add 0.637 kg of a 100% cod liver oil solution to a reaction tank. Then add 0.025 kg of potassium hydroxide diluted 50% with water to the same tank and stir at 1000 rpm for 15 minutes. Add 0.001 kg of acetic acid to the reaction tank. While maintaining stirring at 1000 rpm, add 0.032 kg of sorbitol and 0.02 kg of ethyl alcohol. After 15 minutes, increase the stirring speed to 1600 rpm and maintain it for 40 minutes. Finally, add 0.285 kg of water. The final product is a nanometric lubricant composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts with a particle size of 500 nm.

[0071] Example 8. Preparation of 1 Kg of nanometric lubricant composition based on corn, canola and soybean oil.

[0072] Add 0.637 kg of an oil solution composed of 25% corn, 25% canola, and 50% soybean oil to a reaction tank. Then add 0.025 kg of potassium hydroxide diluted 50% with water to the same tank and stir at 1000 rpm for 15 minutes. Add 0.001 kg of acetic acid to the reaction tank. While maintaining stirring at 1000 rpm, add 0.200 kg of sorbitol and 0.01 kg of ethyl alcohol. After 15 minutes, increase the stirring speed to 1600 rpm and maintain it for 40 minutes. Finally, add 0.127 kg of water. The final product is a nanomaterial lubricant composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts with a particle size of 155 nm.

[0073] Example 9. Lubrication method for 1 kg of bovine skin using a nanometric lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from castor oil.

[0074] Select a previously tanned bovine animal hide; Place 1 kg of the selected tanned animal hide inside a rotating drum; Add to the rotating drum 0.01 kg of a nanometric lubricating composition based on the formation of fatty acid salts from castor oil with a particle size of 700 nm, maintaining an agitation of 10 rpm for 60 minutes to allow penetration and reduce friction between the leather fibers; Adjust the pH to 3.6 using 0.01 kg of formic acid, for 20 minutes at 10 rpm to promote fiber closure of the hide; Remove the lubricated hide from the rotating drum.

[0075] Since various aspects of several embodiments of this invention have been described, it should be noted that those skilled in the art may make various alterations, modifications, and improvements. Such alterations, modifications, and improvements are intended to form part of this description and are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description and the figures mentioned above are for illustrative purposes only.

Claims

CLAIMS 1.- Method for the production of a nanometric lubricating composition for tanned animal skin (leather) characterized in that it comprises the steps of: i) Selecting an oil solution of animal or vegetable origin; i) Add to a reaction tank the previously selected animal or vegetable oil solution, in a proportion of 54.9%-64.3% w / w; iii) Add to said reaction tank an alkali hydroxide compound of general formula HO- diluted to 50% w / w with water, in a proportion of 2.25-4.95% w / w; iv) Stir said mixture at a speed of 1000 rpm for 15 minutes; v) Add to the mixture an acid compound in a proportion of 0.1-0.3% w / w; vi) Add to the mixture sorbitol in a proportion of 0.5%-20% w / w, maintaining stirring at a speed of 1000 rpm for 15 minutes; vi i) Add to the mixture ethyl alcohol in a proportion of 1%-2% w / w; viii) Increase the stirring speed to 1600 rpm for 40 minutes; ix) Add water to the mixture in a proportion of 12.66%-35.01% w / wy; x) Remove the product from the previous mixture, which is a nanometric lubricating composition containing particles with a size range of 100 nm-800 nm.

2. The method for producing the nanometric lubricating composition for tanned animal skin (leather) of claim 1 further characterized in that the animal-derived oil solution comprises at least one type of oil in a proportion of 100% w / w plus one type of oil in a proportion of at least 1% w / w; 3. The method for producing the nanometric lubricating composition for animal tanned skin (leather) of claim 1 further characterized in that the animal oil solution is selected from the group consisting of: Fish oil and cod liver oil.

4. The method for producing the nanomethicone lubricating composition for animal tanned skin (leather) of claim 1, further characterized in that the vegetable oil is selected from the group consisting of: corn oil, olive oil, soybean oil, palm oil, and castor oil. 5.- The method for the production of the nanomethicone lubricating composition for animal tanned skin (leather) of claim 1 further characterized in that the alkali hydroxide compound of general formula HO- is selected from the group consisting of: Potassium hydroxide (KOH), Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and Lithium hydroxide (LiOH). 6.- The method for producing the nanomethicone lubricating composition for animal tanned skin (leather) of claim 1 further characterized in that the acid compound is selected from the group consisting of: acetic acid (CH3COOH), citric acid (CeHsO?) and lactic acid (CsHeO).

7. The method for producing the nanomethicone lubricating composition for animal tanned skin (leather) of claim 1 further characterized in that the water used is selected from the group consisting of: softened water, deionized water, distilled water, double-distilled water or double-distilled water. 8.- A nanomethicone lubricating composition for tanned animal skin (leather) characterized in that it comprises: particles with a size range of 100-800nm ​​based on the formation of fatty acid salts.

9. -Use of a nanomethicone lubricating composition for animal tanned skin (leather) in accordance with claim 8 further characterized in that said lubricating composition is used as a lubricant to improve the flexibility and softness of the animal tanned skin (leather), maintains thermal stability, allows lubrication effectiveness, chemical compatibility, ease of removal and uniformity of application on the leather.

10. -Use in accordance with claim 9, wherein the nanomethicone lubricating composition for animal tanned skin (leather) is added in the order of 1%-10% w / w for each kilogram of skin to be lubricated.

11. A method for lubricating tanned leather characterized in that it comprises the steps of: i) Select a previously tanned animal hide for the lubrication process; i) Place the leather produced by the tanning process inside a rotating drum; iii) Add to the rotating drum the nanometric lubricating composition containing particles with a size range of 100 nm-800 nm in a proportion of 1%-10% w / w per kilogram of leather to be lubricated, maintaining an agitation of 10 rpm for a time of 60-90 minutes to allow penetration and reduce friction between the leather fibers; iv) Adjust the pH to 3.6 using Formic Acid in a proportion of 1%-2% w / w per kilogram of leather to be lubricated, for 20-39 minutes at 10 rpm; and i) Remove the lubricated leather from the rotating drum.

12. -The method for lubricating tanned leather of claim 11 further characterized in that the tanned leather to be selected for lubrication is selected from the group consisting of: animal skins of cow, calf, goat, pig, sheep, lamb and other exotic skins such as ostrich, crocodile and snake.

13. -A tanned animal skin (leather) lubricated using the lubrication method according to claims 11 to 12.

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