Method for finishing leather or imitation leather with reduced energy and environmental impact, as well as thermoplastic product and system usable in this method

Abstract

A method for finishing the leather or imitation leather PSP consecutively comprising the steps of applying a base coat to the leather or imitation leather PSP to be finished, drying said base coat, printing of the leather or imitation leather PSP. Between the drying step and the printing step there is carried out a step for the surface softening of the leather or imitation leather PSP. The product used in the application step is of the thermoplastic type and the printing step takes is carried out either cold or at a temperature between 40°C - 90°C, preferably between 50°C - 70°C, and at a pressure between 30 - 50 Kg / cm2.

Description

[0001] METHOD FOR FINISHING LEATHER OR IMITATION LEATHER WITH REDUCED ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT, AS WELL AS THERMOPLASTIC PRODUCT AND SYSTEM USABLE IN THIS METHOD

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] Field of the invention

[0004] The present invention relates to the technical field of processing leather or imitation leather and it relates to a method for finishing leather or imitation leather with reduced energy and environmental impact, as well as a thermoplastic product and system which can be used in such method.

[0005] Definitions

[0006] In the present document, the expression "leather" or "leather" or "leather goods" or "hide" is used to indicate any layer, whether it be grain, crust or sub-crust, of the leather of an animal, in particular of a bovine, but also of sheep / goats, pigs, exotic, fur, wild animals or others, or nubuck, frosted leather, wet-blue leather, plant-based leather or wet-white leather.

[0007] In the present document, the expression "imitation leather" is used to indicate a nonanimal product ora product of non-animal origin, whose external appearance is similar leather of animal origin.

[0008] In the present document, the expression "energy curable" and its derivatives is used to indicate a product which, when applied to the leather and it is exposed to UV irradiation by means of a UV lamp, UV LED, excimer lamp or low energy ionizing radiation by means of electron beam technology, cross-links forming a film on the treated medium.

[0009] In the present document, the expression "irradiation" and its derivatives is used to indicate irradiation with UV rays by means of UV lamp, UV LED, excimer lamp or low energy ionizing radiation by means of electron beam technology.

[0010] In the present document, the expression "finished" referring to a leather or imitation leather, which refers to a leather or imitation leather at the end of the entire finishing process, therefore following the application of the fixative product, its possible drying and the possible cross-linking thereof by irradiation.

[0011] State of the Art

[0012] It is known that the leather undergoes several processes that are typically riviera, retanning and finishing processes.

[0013] Among the various processes, finishing is intended to improve the aesthetic and / or product characteristics of the leather or imitation leather, such as the feel to touch, colour, evenness of the leather or imitation leather, concealing any superficial defects, increasing the resistance to chemical agents or water, resistance to continuous bending and resistance to abrasion.

[0014] In order to finish the leather or imitation leather, it is known to apply a pre-base coat to the leather or imitation leather and dry it, apply a base coat and dry it, apply a release agent and dry it, heat-print a drawing, drum the printed leather or imitation leather, apply a refit layer and dry it, apply a fixative layer and dry it (top coat).

[0015] Typically, printing is carried out at temperatures between 90°C - 135°C and at pressures between 100 - 250 kg / cm2.

[0016] On the other hand, the products used for the base coat, the refit and the fixing provide for the addition of cross-linking agents, such as for example polyaziridine, polyisocyanates, polyureas and epoxy resins, to increase the chemical-physical resistances of the finishing.

[0017] However, such known finishing method involves a high number of application steps, resulting in time, economical, energy-consumption and high environmental impact due to waste of chemicals, waste to be purified or to be removed and sent to the landfill.

[0018] On the other hand, there is known paper release printing technique, which allows to create a drawing on the leather or imitation leather using embossed paper.

[0019] Therefore, there is applied a pre-base coat, there is carried out a subsequent drying and followed by the application of a base coat and then partially dried.

[0020] At the same time, a covering layer (preskin), consisting of a mixture based on natural binders, synthetic binders, waxes, additives, thickeners and the like, there is applied is applied on an embossed paper, and then partially dried in the oven to take the drawing of the paper.

[0021] The leather with the partially dried base coat adhered by means of a press to the embossed paper with the partially dried preskin, so as to transfer the drawing of the paper to the leather goods through the coupling process.

[0022] The coupled leather is completely dried in an oven at 60 - 90 °C and, lastly, the process is completed with the release between the embossed paper and the leather is provided with preskin with the desired drawing which will remain adhered to the skin.

[0023] The leather or imitation leather thus drawn may then proceed toward the completion of the classic finishing with the application of a refit and fixation.

[0024] Even in this case, in the base coat, refit and fixing steps there are used products which provide for the addition of cross-linking agents such as for example polyaziridine, polyisocyanates, polyureas and epoxy resins to obtain better physical and chemical resistance.

[0025] Therefore, although such known finishing method involves a high number of application steps, resulting in time, economical, energy-consumption and high environmental impact due to waste of chemicals, waste to be purified or to be removed and sent to the landfill.

[0026] Among others, the above-mentioned paper release printing, for the purposes of surface cleaning, provides for treating all the paper after each application using large amounts of cleaning adhesive scotch which must then also be disposed of in an appropriate manner, resulting in additional time, economic and environmental consumption.

[0027] Summary of the invention

[0028] An object of the present invention is to at least partly overcome the drawbacks illustrated above by providing a method for finishing the leather or imitation leather which allows to significantly save time and reduce costs.

[0029] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for finishing the leather or imitation leather with low energy impact.

[0030] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for finishing the leather or imitation leather with low environmental impact.

[0031] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for finishing leather or imitation leather which provides for reducing waste with respect to the prior art.

[0032] A further object of the present invention is to provide a method for finishing leather or imitation leather which allows to significantly save the time required for finishing with respect to the prior art.

[0033] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for finishing leather or imitation leather which confers to the latter physical and / or mechanical and / or chemical characteristics comparable or superior to the products of the prior art.

[0034] These and other objects which will be more apparent hereinafter are attained by a method for finishing leather or imitation leather and / or by a thermoplastic product and / or a system which can be used in such method as described, illustrated and / or claimed herein.

[0035] The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0036] Generally, the method according to the invention may be useful for finishing leather or imitation leather PSP. Advantageously, it may consecutively include a step for applying a base coat on the leather or imitation leather PSP, a step for drying the base coat, a step for the surface softening of the leather or imitation leather PSP and a step for printing the latter.

[0037] Preferably, the product used in the application step may be applied to the leather or imitation leather PSP using per se known methods, such as spraying, using a roller machine, using a layer application machine, by hand with buffering, by hand with brush or any other technique deemed suitable, for example in amounts between 6 - 15 g / ft2.

[0038] Suitably, the product used in this application step may be based on natural and / or synthetic binders, dyes, pigments, dyes, fillers, silicones, matting substances, solvents, plasticizers, penetrating agents, release agents, oil and water repellent agents.

[0039] In addition, such product may be of the thermoplastic type.

[0040] For example, such base coat may have a softening temperature measured according to the ISO 306 standard below 75 °C.

[0041] Additionally or alternatively, the base coat may have a degree of post-cross-linking film elasticity measured according to the ASTM 412-C standard comprised between 200 % - 800 % and / or a glass transition temperature measured according to the ISO 11357 standard comprised between 0 °C and - 60 °C.

[0042] For example, the base coat may be selected from those known in the prior art, having the characteristics mentioned above, or it may be an energy curable product, for example as described in the application 102024000020446 or in the application PCT / IB2025 / 059082 on behalf of the applicant.

[0043] However, in the case of an energy curable product, subsequently to the printing step, the step for the treatment of the leather or imitation leather PSP may be carried out by irradiation, for example by means of an irradiation with UV rays using a UV, UV LED lamp, excimer lamp or low energy ionizing radiation through the electron beam technology.

[0044] However, irradiation may be carried out at a power between 100 - 2000 mW / cm2and the dispensing devices may have a linear power between 80 - 120 W / cm linear.

[0045] For example, in the case of UV irradiation, the lamps used may be gallium or mercury lamps, while the wavelengths of the light used may vary depending on the type of cross-linking to be obtained.

[0046] For example, there may be used wavelengths between 200 - 260 nm for the most superficial cross-linking, between 340 - 380 nm for normal cross-linking, between 400 - 440 nm for deeper cross-linking.

[0047] However, such radiation step may also not be carried out and it may be carried out only as the last step of the process, as described below, regardless of whether the fixative product is an energy curable product.

[0048] The drying step may be carried out for example in air ovens or in a ventilated infrared oven, for example at a temperature of about 70°C - 90°C.

[0049] The subsequent step for softening the dried base coat may be carried out using an infrared lamp acting on the surface layer of the leather or imitation leather PSP, at a temperature between 70°C - 120°C.

[0050] The expression surface layer is used to indicate a layer measuring 0,005 - 0,15 mm in thickness.

[0051] Softened leather or imitation leather is therefore printed, for example using a cold roller or roller thermostated between 40°C - 90°C, preferably between 50°C - 70°C.

[0052] Such roller may imprint the drawing on the leather at a pressure between 30 and 50 Kg / cm2.

[0053] It is therefore clear that the choice of a thermoplastic base coat, together with a softening of the surface layer of the leather or imitation leather PSP, may allow cold printing thereof or at low temperatures and pressures, as described above.

[0054] Advantageously, the roller used in the printing step may be pre-engraved or it may be a smooth roller which imprints the drawing on a an embossed paper present on the leather or imitation leather PSP.

[0055] Therefore, this solution allows to directly draw on a softened and non-sticky base coat, without the need for a subsequent cleaning of the paper used, which can therefore be immediately used for printing other leather or imitation leather, allowing to significantly save time and avoid waste of cleaning scotch to be dispose of.

[0056] Subsequently to the printing and possible irradiation cross-linking step, there may be carried out a step for applying a fixative product as described above regarding the base coat, in an amount between 2 and 15 g / ft2.

[0057] Such fixative product may be a product per se known in the prior art, based on natural and / or synthetic binders, pigments, waxes, dyes, fillers, silicones, matting substances, solvents, plasticizers, penetrating agents, release agents, oil and water-repellent agents which require the addition of additional cross-linking agents, such as for example polyaziridine, polyisocyanates, polyureas, epoxy resins.

[0058] On the other hand, the fixative product may be a product as described in application 102024000020446 or application PCT / IB2025 / 059082 on behalf of the applicant.

[0059] However, in the case of an energy curable product, subsequently to the step for applying the fixative product, the step for the treatment of the leather or imitation leather PSP may be carried out by irradiation, for example by means of an irradiation with UV rays using a UV, UV LED lamp, excimer lamp or low energy ionizing radiation through the electron beam technology.

[0060] In any case, as described above in relation to the energy curable base coat, the irradiation may be carried out at a power between 100 - 2000 mW / cm2and the dispensing devices may have a linear power between 80 - 120 W / cm linear.

[0061] For example, in the case of UV irradiation, the lamps used may be gallium or mercury lamps, while the wavelengths of the light used may vary depending on the type of cross-linking to be obtained.

[0062] For example, even in this event, there may be used wavelengths between 200 - 260 nm for the most superficial cross-linking, between 340 - 380 nm for normal cross-linking, between 400 - 440 nm for deeper cross-linking.

[0063] It is clear that between the step for applying the fixative product and the possible irradiation step, there may be a step for drying the fixative product, for example in an air oven or in a ventilated infrared oven, for example at a temperature of about 70 °C - 90 °C.

[0064] Subsequently to the cross-linking step, both by means of special devices and for the presence of self-cross-linking substances in the fixative product, there may be a step for drumming the leather, so as to confer softness and naturalness to the leather.

[0065] Suitably, before the step for applying the base coat, there may be carried out a step for applying, as described above, a pre-base coat per se known in the prior art, with subsequent drying in air ovens or in a ventilated infrared oven, for example at a temperature of about 70 °C - 90 °C.

[0066] A further aspect of the invention may relate to a thermoplastic product which can be used in the method described above, for example as a base coat.

[0067] It is clear that the thermoplastic product may be used as a fixative product without departing from the scope of protection of the attached claims.

[0068] Advantageously, the thermoplastic product may therefore have a softening temperature measured according to the ISO 306 standard below 75°C.

[0069] Additionally or alternatively, the thermoplastic product may have a degree of postcross-linking film elasticity measured according to the ASTM 412-C standard comprised between 200 % - 800 % and / or a glass transition temperature measured according to the ISO 11357 standard comprised between 0 °C and - 60 °C.

[0070] A further aspect of the invention may relate to a system 1 for finishing leather or imitation leather PSP that can be used to carry out the steps of the method described above.

[0071] Therefore, the system 1, as shown in FIG. 1, may include at least in succession a device 11 for the application of a base coat to the leather or imitation leather PSP to be finished, a device 12 for drying the base coat, a device 13 for the surface softening of the leather or imitation leather PSP and a device 14 for printing the leather or imitation leather PSP.

[0072] The printing device 14 may be configured for cold-printing or printing at a temperature between 40°C - 90°C, preferably between 50°C - 70°C, and / or at a pressure between 30 - 50 Kg / cm2.

[0073] Preferably, as described above and as shown in FIG. 2, the system 1 may also include a device for applying a fixative product 15 and a drying device 16.

[0074] Suitably, as shown in FIG. 3, should the base coat be of the energy curable type, consecutively to the printing device 14 there may be present, although not necessarily, an irradiation device 17.

[0075] On the other hand, should the fixative product be of the energy curable type, consecutively to the drying device 16 there may be present an irradiation device 18.

[0076] As mentioned above, there may be present only the irradiation device 18 for the treatment of the base coat and / or fixative product without departing from the scope of protection of the attached claims, as shown in FIG. 5.

[0077] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4, the system 1 may include a device 19 for applying a pre-base coat with relative drying device 20 prior to the device 11 for applying the base coat.

[0078] It is clear that all the devices mentioned above may have the characteristics described in relation to the method of implementation of the steps of the method and therefore reference shall be made to the description outlined above for the sake of ease of description.

[0079] Suitably, the system 1 may include one or more conveyors 10 for conveying the leather or imitation leather PSP to be finished so as to ensure continuous processing.

[0080] In a preferred but non-exclusive embodiment, the conveyor 10 may be single and it may have a surface for supporting the leather or imitation leather PSP.

[0081] Advantageously, the conveyor 10 may be positioned facing the devices mentioned above or pass through them.

[0082] For example, the conveyor 10 may be arranged below the application devices 11, 15, 19, softening devices 13, printing devices 14 and, where present, irradiation devices 17 and / or 18, while it may pass through appropriate openings of drying devices 12, 16, 20.

[0083] Preferably, the conveyor 10 may advance at a speed between 3 - 12 m / min depending on the type of leather or imitation leather PSP and the devices chosen.

[0084] Therefore, the advancement direction of the conveyor 10 may also define the spatial and consecutive positioning of the devices so as to ensure the sequential performance of the steps of the above method.

[0085] The leather thus finished may undergo further mechanical or chemical-physical processing to obtain further variants of items.

[0086] In any case, the finished leather or imitation leather PSP, therefore obtained subsequently to the application of the fixative, the subsequent drying thereof and possible final irradiation cross-linking may have a dry bending resistance from 30000 to 250000 cycles, preferably from 40000 to 200000 cycles, even more preferably from 55000 to 150000 cycles according to the IUP 20 ISO 5402-1 standard.

[0087] Furthermore, the finished leather or imitation leather PSP may have a dry degree of adhesion according to the IUF 470 ISO 11644 standard from 2 to 20 N, preferably from 3 to 15 N, even more preferably from 4.5 to 8.8 N.

[0088] Lastly, the finished leather or imitation leather PSP may have a dry abrasion resistance according to the IUF 450 ISO 11640 standard between 200 and 4000 cycles, preferably between 300 and 3000 cycles, even more preferably between 500 and 2400 cycles and / or wet abrasion resistance according to the IUF 450 ISO 11640 standard from 25 to 1500 cycles, preferably from 35 to 1200 cycles, even more preferably from 65 to 720 cycles.

[0089] The invention is susceptible to numerous modifications and variants, all falling within the scope of protection of the attached claims. All details can be replaced by other technically equivalent elements, and the materials can be different depending on the needs, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention defined by the attached claims.

[0090] The invention may be clearer in light of the following examples, which shall be deemed provided for exemplifying and non-limiting purpose with respect to the invention. Examples

[0091] 1.1 Preparation of samples

[0092] There were prepared some samples of bovine and ovine leather and PVC, PU and PA imitation leather:

[0093] Aljeather, A2_leather, A3 Jeather: footwear or leather goods;

[0094] BIJeather, B2_leather, B3_leather: furnishing;

[0095] Cljeather, C2_leather, C3_leather: bodywork;

[0096] Al imitation leather, A2_imitation leather, A3_imitation leather: footwear or leather goods;

[0097] BIJmitation leather, B2_imitation leather, B3_imitation leather: furnishing; CIJmitation leather, C2_imitation leather, C3_imitation leather: bodywork.

[0098] 1.1.1 for the preparation of the above samples, there were used certain products (PRODUCT 1, PRODUCT 2, PRODUCT S, PRODUCT 4, PRODUCTS, PRODUCT S), obtained as follows:

[0099] 1.1.1.1 PRODUCTS 1, 2, 3 (corresponding respectively to samples Al, A2, A3 of application 102024000020446 or identical to application PCT / IB2025 / 059082 on behalf of the applicant): in a glass round-bottom flask, provided with a stirrer, there were introduced, in a nitrogen atmosphere, 119.16 g of Adicrol B 55 previously melted at 60°C, 8.12 g of dimethyl propionic acid, 40.73 g of isophorone diisocyanate and 40 g of acetone. It is mixed slowly, heating to 50 °C and the nitrogen atmosphere is maintained throughout the reaction.

[0100] There are introduced 0.4 g Borchi Kat 24 and reaction is carried out for 0.5 hours. The reaction is exothermic and the temperature is maintained between 70°C and 75°C with suitable thermostating systems.

[0101] The NCO titre is checked using a method according to the ISO 14896 standard applied to a prepolymer, which must be 3.21 + / - 0.20 % on the dry residue.

[0102] Into the reactor there are introduced 0.80 g Irganox 1135, 6.54g 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate, 4.50 g glycerol mono methacrylate and 0.80 g Borchi Kat 24, and reaction is carried out at 70-75°C for 1.5 hours. The NCO titre is checked, which shall be 0 and 0.1 % on the dry residue so that the NCO / (OH+NHx) ratio is equal to 1. Were this not to be the case, there is added a further catalyst portion and the reaction continued for another 0.5 hours. Heating is interrupted until a temperature of 60 to 65°C is reached, 6.54g of triethylamine are introduced into the reactor followed by 5.52 g TPO-L and 5.51 g Ciba® DAROCUR® 1173, there follows stirring for at least 10 minutes, taking care not to expose the reactor to sources of direct heat.

[0103] A second beaker reactor is then prepared providing it with a rod stirrer with a sawtooth impeller and introducing 580 g of demineralized water and 0.22 g of Tego foamex 825 thereinto and then stirred vigorously for 10 minutes.

[0104] As a result, in order to obtain the emulsion it will be sufficient to slowly introduce flush the contents of the first reactor into the second reactor within 15 minutes, while stirring very vigorously. Continue stirring vigorously for 30 minutes.

[0105] The contents of the second reactor opened for 2 hours shall be heated to 62 °C to remove the solvent and shall be filtered cold or hot on an 80 pm canvas.

[0106] Depending on the type of additives selected and added to complete the mixing step, the following formulations are obtained:

[0107] PRODUCT 1: the mixing step is completed by adding, in a different reactor, 98 g of the dispersion obtained up to now and 27.1 g of demineralized water. Then, there are sequentially and slowly added, while stirring quite vigorously 2 g of DPM, 0.1 g of AMP 95, 2.5 g TS 100, 0.5 g Rolflex A 349, 3 g of Coriwax M / N2, 2 g of Dowsil 52, 0.3 g Modarez SW 452 concentrated, 2.5 g of Rheolate 278 TF, 12 g of Idrocap 993 PF. The whole is mixed until homogeneity and stirred for another 30 minutes, then filter under pressure or gravity on a 25 pm canvas.

[0108] PRODUCT 2: the mixing step is completed by adding, in a different reactor, 39.5 g of the dispersion obtained up to now and 450 g of demineralized water. Then, there are sequentially and slowly added while stirring vigorously 0.7 g of G3 POTA Jobachem, 3.0 g of Dowsil 5-7254, 0.3 g of BYK 3500, 0,2 g of Modarez SW 452 concentrated, 8.0 g Alcopur 561 PG, 1.5 g of Rheolate 278 TF. The whole is mixed until homogeneity and stirred for another 30 minutes, then filter under pressure or gravity on a 20 pm canvas.

[0109] PRODUCT 3: the mixing step is completed by adding, in a different reactor, 85 g of the dispersion obtained above, 12.8 g of brown pigment paste, 0.9 g of Ciba® DAROCUR® 1173 and 1 g of Coripur AD 155 thickener. It is stirred for 15 min. It is filtered on a 250 pm canvas.

[0110] 1.1.1.2 PRODUCTS 4, 5, 6 (corresponding respectively to samples Bl, B2, B3 of application 102024000020446 or identically of the application PCT / IB2025 / 059082 on behalf of the applicant): in a round-bottomed balloon glass reactor, provided with a rod stirrer, there are introduced, in a nitrogen atmosphere, 173.45 g of PTMEG 2000 previously melted at 60°C, 10.60 g of dimethyl propionic acid, 59.80 g of isophorone diisocyanate, 52 g of acetone.

[0111] It is mixed slowly, heating to 50 °C and the nitrogen atmosphere is maintained throughout the reaction.

[0112] Into the reactor there are introduced 0.25 g of Nymanox B 22, 3.71 g of 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate and 2.57 g of glycerol monomethacrylate. There are introduced 0.4 g Borchi Kat 24 and reaction is carried out for 1.5 hours. The reaction is exothermic and the temperature is maintained between 70 and 75°C with suitable thermostating systems. Therefore, the NCO titre is checked, which shall be 1.40±0.2% on the dry residue so that the NCO / (OH+NHx) ratio is greater than 1. Were this not to be the case, there is added another catalyst portion and the reaction continued for another 30 minutes.

[0113] Heating is stopped until 60-65°C are reached. 6.64 g of triethylamine are then introduced into the reactor followed by 7.73 g TPO-L.

[0114] Mixing is carried out for 10 minutes, taking care not to expose the reactor to sources of direct heat.

[0115] In order to obtain the emulsion, a second beaker reactor is then prepared providing it with a rod stirrer with a saw-tooth impeller and introducing 385 g of demineralized water, 0.45 g of Tego foamex 825 and 7.35 g of Ciba® DAROCUR® 1173 thereinto, and then stirred vigorously for 10 minutes.

[0116] The contents of the first reactor are introduced slowly flush into the second reactor within 15 minutes, while stirring very vigorously.

[0117] 4.03 g of ethylenediamine diluted in 20 g of water are pipetted, ensuring that the pH of the dispersion or emulsion does not exceed 9.5. Continue stirring vigorously for 30 minutes. The contents of the second reactor opened for 2 hours shall be heated to 62 °C to remove the solvent. Cold or hot filtering is carried out on an 80 pm canvas. The NCO content is then checked and it must be between 0 and 0.1 % on the dry residue so that the NCO / (OH+NHx) ratio is equal to 1.

[0118] Depending on the type of additives selected and added to complete the mixing step, the following formulations are obtained:

[0119] PRODUCT 4: the mixing step is completed by adding, in a different reactor, 230 g of the above polyurethane dispersion and 30.2 g of water. The following are added sequentially, slowly, while stirring vigorously: 2 g di DMP, 0.1 g di AMP 95, 2.3 g of TS100, 0.5 g of Rolacril A 349, 2.0 g of Dowsil 52, 0.2 g of Modarez SW 452 concentrated, 10.5 g of Idrocap 993 PF, 3.0 g of Coriwax M / N2, 2.5 g of Rheolate 278 TF. The whole is mixed until homogeneity and stirred for another 30 minutes, then filter under pressure or gravity on a 50 pm canvas.

[0120] PRODUCT 5: the mixing step is completed by adding, in a different reactor, 46 g of the dispersion obtained above and 40.7 g of water. The following are added sequentially while stirring vigorously: 3 g of Dowsil 5-7254, 8 g of Alcopur 561 PG, 0.3 g of Byk-3500, 1 g of Rheolate 278 TF, 0.7 g of G3 POT A, 0,3 g of Modarez sw 452 concentrated. The stirring is maintained until complete uniformity and it is extended for another 30 min. It is filtered by gravity or pressure on a 20 pm canvas.

[0121] PRODUCT 6: the mixing step is completed by adding, in a different reactor, 85 g of the dispersion obtained above, 12.8 g of brown pigment paste, 0.9 g of Ciba® DAROCUR® 1173 and 1 g of Coripur AD 155 thickener. It is stirred for 15 min. It is filtered on a 250 pm canvas.

[0122] 1.1.2 Samples Aljeather, A2_leather, A3_leather, Bljeather, B2_leather, B3_leather, Ci leather, C2_leather, C3_leather, Al imitation leather, A2_imitation leather, A3_imitation leather, Bl_imitation leather, B2_imitation leather, B3_imitation leather, CIJmitation leather, C2_imitation leather, C3_imitation leather were obtained by means of the following steps:

[0123] Leather

[0124] Sample Al leather for footwear

[0125] A crust ovine leather for full-grain footwear is taken, it is pre-primed with 2 grams / pq of a mixture consisting of 25 parts of a polyurethane CORIPUR AG20PLUS (Corichem), 25 parts of the penetrant CORIDRIVE Ml (Corichem) and 50 parts of water, then it is dried under a ventilated oven at 80°C.

[0126] Then there are roller coater-applied 7 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 83 parts of CORIGROUND BIO / 80 (Corichem) and 2 parts of a polyureic cross-linking agent CORILINK 300(Corichem), it is dried under a ventilated oven at 80°C and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 85°C.

[0127] A drawing is imprinted on the cover by means of a thermostated roller at 70°C, on which there slides an embossed paper with a drawing of a fake flower which imparts a pressure of 45 Kg / cm2.

[0128] Then, there are spray-applied 3 grams / pq of a UV-cross-linkable glossy fixative, that is PRODUCT 5 described above. Then there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 80 °C and then cross-linking with Energy curing with UV at 100 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1000 mW / cm2at 360 nm wavelength.

[0129] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 8 meters per minute.

[0130] This allows to obtain a glossy leather suitable to obtain footwear.

[0131] Sample A2 leather for footwear A crust bovine leather for slightly frosted footwear is taken, then it is pre-primed with about 3 grams / pq of a mixture of 25 parts of a polyurethane CORIPUR AG20PLUS (Corichem), 25 parts of the penetrant CORIDRIVE Ml (Corichem) and 50 parts of water, then it is dried under a ventilated oven at 80°C.

[0132] Then there are spray-applied 10 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 85 parts of PRODUCT 3 described above, it is dried under a ventilated oven at 80°C and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 95°C.

[0133] A drawing is imprinted on the cover by means of a thermostated roller at 90°C, on which there slides an embossed paper with a drawing such as "federica" which imparts a pressure of 50 Kg / cm2.

[0134] There follows the energy curing cross-linking with UV at 80 W per linear centimetre and irradiation of 800 mW / cm2at 360 nm.

[0135] Then, there are spray-applied 8 grams / pq of a UV-cross-l inkable semi-opaque fixative, consisting of a mixture in a 1:1 ratio of PRODUCT 5 and product 1. Then there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 80 °C and then cross-linking with Energy curing with UV at 120 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1200 mW / cm2at 360 nm wavelength.

[0136] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 4 meters per minute.

[0137] This allows to obtain a semi-opaque leather suitable to obtain footwear.

[0138] Sample A3 leather for leather goods

[0139] A crust bovine leather for leather goods is taken, then it is pre-primed with about 4 grams / pq of a mixture of 25 parts of a polyurethane CORIPUR AG20PLUS (Corichem), 25 parts of the penetrant CORIDRIVE Ml (Corichem) and 50 parts of water, then it is dried under a ventilated oven at 80°C.

[0140] Then there are roller coater-applied 12 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 85 parts of PRODUCT 6, it is dried under a ventilated oven at 80°C and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 85°C.

[0141] There is imprinted a drawing such as "claudia" on the cover by means of a thermostated pre-engraved cylinder at 75°C with which there is imparted a pressure of 45 Kg / cm2.

[0142] There follows the energy curing cross-linking with UV at 120 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1600 mW / cm2at a 420 nm wavelength.

[0143] Then, there are spray-applied 10 grams / pq of a glossy fixative consisting of 98 parts of CORIFIX W 1013 / L (Corichem) and 2 parts of an isocyanic cross-linking agent CORILINK 73 (Corichem). Lastly, there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 85 °C.

[0144] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 6 meters per minute.

[0145] This allows to obtain a glossy leather suitable to obtain leather goods.

[0146] Sample Bl leather for furnishing

[0147] Frosted crust bovine leather for furnishing is taken, and then it is pre-primed with about 3 grams / pq with CORIBASE 186 (Corichem) to balance the leather.

[0148] Then there are roller coater-applied 14 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 83 parts of CORIGROUND BIO / 70 (Corichem) and 2 parts of a polyureic cross-linking agent CORILINK 300(Corichem), it is dried under a ventilated oven and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 85°C.

[0149] There is imprinted a drawing such as "fake flower" on the cover by means of a thermostated pre-engraved cylinder at 80°C with which there is imparted a pressure of 45 Kg / cm2.

[0150] Then, there are spray-applied 8 grams / pq of a UV-cross-linkable opaque fixative, that is PRODUCT 1 described above. Then there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 80 °C and then cross-linking with Energy curing with UV at 100 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1000 mW / cm2at 360 nm wavelength.

[0151] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 8 meters per minute.

[0152] This allows to obtain an opaque leather suitable to obtain furnishing items.

[0153] Sample B2 leather for furnishing

[0154] A frosted crust bovine leather for furnishing is taken and then there are spray-applied 15 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 85 parts of PRODUCT 3 described above, it is dried under a ventilated oven at and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 100°C.

[0155] A drawing is imprinted on the cover by means of a thermostated cylinder at 85°C on which there slides an embossed paper with a drawing such as madras with which there is imparted a pressure of 50 Kg / cm2.

[0156] There follows the energy curing cross-linking with UV at 120 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1600 mW / cm2at a 420 nm wavelength.

[0157] Then, there are spray-applied 6 grams / pq of a UV-cross-l inkable semi-opaque fixative, consisting of a mixture in a 1:1 ratio of PRODUCT 2 and PRODUCT 1 described above. Then there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 80 °C and then cross-linking with Energy curing with UV at 100 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1000 mW / cm2at 360 nm wavelength.

[0158] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 6 meters per minute.

[0159] This allows to obtain a semi-opaque leather suitable to obtain furnishing items.

[0160] Sample B3 leather for furnishing

[0161] A crust bovine leather for furnishing is taken and there are roller coater-applied 15 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 83 parts of CORIG ROUND BIO / 70 (Corichem) and 2 parts of a polyureic cross-linking agent CORILINK 300(Corichem), it is dried under a ventilated oven and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 95°C.

[0162] A drawing is imprinted on the cover by means of a thermostated roller at 80°C, on which there slides an embossed paper with a drawing such as a "dollar" which imparts a pressure of 50 Kg / cm2.

[0163] Then, there are spray-applied 10 grams / pq of a glossy fixative consisting of 98 parts of CORI FIX W 89 / OP (Corichem) and 2 parts of an isocyanic cross-linking agent CORILINK 73 (Corichem). Lastly, there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 85 °C.

[0164] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 10 meters per minute. This allows to obtain an opaque leather suitable to obtain furnishing items.

[0165] Sample Cl leather for bodywork

[0166] A crust bovine leather for frosted bodywork is taken and then there are roller coater- applied 15 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 80 parts of CORIGROUND BIO / 70 (Corichem) and 5 parts of a polyureic cross-linking agent CORILINK 300(Corichem), it is dried under a ventilated oven at 80°C and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 95°C.

[0167] There is imprinted a drawing such as "fake flower" on the cover by means of a thermostated pre-engraved cylinder at 85°C with which there is imparted a pressure of 50 Kg / cm2.

[0168] Then, there are spray-applied 12 grams / pq of a UV-cross-linkable opaque fixative, that is PRODUCT 4 described above. Then there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 80 °C and then cross-linking with Energy curing with UV at 100 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1400 mW / cm2at 360 nm wavelength.

[0169] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 8 meters per minute.

[0170] This allows to obtain an opaque leather suitable to obtain items for the bodywork.

[0171] Sample C2 leather for bodywork

[0172] A frosted crust bovine leather for leather goods is taken, then it is pre-primed with about 4 grams / pq of a mixture of 25 parts of a polyurethane CORIPUR AG20PLUS (Corichem), 25 parts of the penetrant CORIDRIVE Ml (Corichem) and 50 parts of water, then it is dried under a ventilated oven at 80°C.

[0173] Then there are roller coater-applied 15 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 85 parts of PRODUCT 6 described above, it is dried under a ventilated oven at and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 90°C.

[0174] There is imprinted a drawing such as "federica" on the cover by means of a thermostated pre-engraved cylinder at 80°C with which there is imparted a pressure of 45 Kg / cm2. There follows the energy curing cross-linking with UV at 120 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1600 mW / cm2at a 360 nm wavelength.

[0175] Then, there are spray-applied 12 grams / pq of a UV-cross-linkable opaque fixative, that is PRODUCT 4 described above. Then there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 80 °C and then cross-linking with Energy curing with UV at 100 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1400 mW / cm2at 360 nm wavelength.

[0176] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 6 meters per minute.

[0177] This allows to obtain an opaque leather suitable to obtain items for the bodywork.

[0178] Sample C3 leather for bodywork

[0179] A crust bovine leather for frosted bodywork is taken and then there are roller coater- applied 14 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 80 parts of CORIGROUND BIO / 70 (Corichem) and 5 parts of a polyureic cross-linking agent CORILINK 300(Corichem), it is dried under a ventilated oven at 80°C and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 95°C.

[0180] There is imprinted a drawing such as "fake flower" on the cover by means of a thermostated pre-engraved cylinder at 85°C with which there is imparted a pressure of 50 Kg / cm2.

[0181] Then, there are spray-applied 15 grams / pq of a glossy fixative consisting of 92 parts of SUPRACOR FX 5403 / M (Corichem) and 8 parts of an isocyanic cross-linking agent SUPRACOR CLK 77 (Corichem). Lastly, there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 85 °C. The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 8 meters per minute.

[0182] This allows to obtain an opaque leather suitable to obtain items for the bodywork.

[0183] Imitation leather

[0184] Sample Al imitation leather for footwear

[0185] A roll of PVC material / synthetic fabric for the preparation of an imitation leather for footwear is taken, it is spray-pre-primed by applying on the surface 6 grams / pq of CORIPUR GND 245 (Corichem), the pre-base coat is partially dried and it is pressed it with a glazed paper.

[0186] Then the process is carried out as with Sample Al eather.

[0187] There are roller coater-applied 7 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 83 parts of CORIGROUND BIO / 80 (Corichem) and 2 parts of a polyureic cross-linking agent CORILINK 300(Corichem), it is dried under a ventilated oven at 80°C and then the surface film is softened by passing the imitation leather under an IR lamp at 85°C.

[0188] A drawing is imprinted on the cover by means of a thermostated roller at 70°C, on which there slides an embossed paper with a drawing of a fake flower which imparts a pressure of 45 Kg / cm2.

[0189] Then, there are spray-applied 3 grams / pq of a UV-cross-linkable glossy fixative, that is PRODUCT 5 described above. Then there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 80 °C and then cross-linking with Energy curing with UV at 100 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1000 mW / cm2at 360 nm wavelength.

[0190] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 8 meters per minute.

[0191] This allows to obtain a glossy imitation leather suitable to obtain footwear.

[0192] Sample A2 imitation leather for footwear corrected

[0193] A roll of PVC material / synthetic fabric for the preparation of an imitation leather for footwear is taken, it is spray-pre-primed by applying on the surface 10 grams / pq of CORIPUR GND 239 (Corichem), the pre-base coat is partially dried and it is pressed it with a glazed paper.

[0194] Then the process is carried out as with Sample A2_leather.

[0195] Then there are spray-applied 10 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 85 parts of PRODUCT 3 described above, it is dried under a ventilated oven at 80°C and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 95°C.

[0196] A drawing is imprinted on the cover by means of a thermostated roller at 90°C, on which there slides an embossed paper with a drawing such as "federica" which imparts a pressure of 50 Kg / cm2. There follows the energy curing cross-linking with UV at 80 W per linear centimetre and irradiation of 800 mW / cm2at 360 nm.

[0197] Then, there are spray-applied 8 grams / pq of a UV-cross-l inkable semi-opaque fixative, consisting of a mixture in a 1:1 ratio of PRODUCT 5 and PRODUCT 1 described above. Then there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 80 °C and then cross-linking with Energy curing with UV at 120 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1600 mW / cm2at 360 nm wavelength.

[0198] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 4 meters per minute.

[0199] This allows to obtain a semi-opaque leather suitable to obtain footwear.

[0200] Sample A3 imitation leather for leather goods

[0201] A roll of PVC material for the preparation of an imitation leather for leather goods is taken, it is spray-pre-primed by applying on the surface 6 grams / pq of CORIPUR GND 245 (Corichem), the pre-base coat is partially dried and it is pressed it with a glazed paper.

[0202] Then the process is carried out as with Sample A3_leather.

[0203] Then there are roller coater-applied 12 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 85 parts of PRODUCT 6 described above, it is dried under a ventilated oven at and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 85°C.

[0204] There is imprinted a drawing such as "claudia" on the cover by means of a thermostated pre-engraved cylinder at 75°C with which there is imparted a pressure of 45 Kg / cm2.

[0205] There follows the energy curing cross-linking with UV at 120 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1600 mW / cm2at a 420 nm wavelength.

[0206] Then, there are spray-applied 10 grams / pq of a glossy fixative consisting of 98 parts of CORIFIX W 1013 / L and 2 parts of an isocyanic cross-linking agent CORILINK 73. Lastly, there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 85 °C.

[0207] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 6 meters per minute.

[0208] This allows to obtain a glossy leather suitable to obtain leather goods. Sample Bl imitation leather for furnishing

[0209] A roll of PVC material for the preparation of an imitation leather for furnishing is taken, it is spray-pre-primed by applying on the surface 7 grams / pq of CORIPUR GND 245 (Corichem), the pre-base coat is partially dried and it is pressed it with a glazed paper. Then there are roller coater-applied 14 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Centex (Sarnia), 83 parts of CORIGROUND BIO / 70 (Corichem) and 2 parts of a polyureic cross-linking agent CORILINK 300(Corichem), it is dried under a ventilated oven and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 85°C.

[0210] There is imprinted a drawing such as "fake flower" on the cover by means of a thermostated pre-engraved cylinder at 80°C with which there is imparted a pressure of 45 Kg / cm2.

[0211] Then, there are spray-applied 8 grams / pq of a UV-cross-linkable opaque fixative, that is PRODUCT 1 described above. Then there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 80 °C and then cross-linking with Energy curing with UV at 100 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1000 mW / cm2at 360 nm wavelength.

[0212] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 8 meters per minute.

[0213] This allows to obtain an opaque imitation leather suitable to obtain furnishing items.

[0214] Sample B2 imitation leather for furnishing

[0215] A roll of PU fabric material for the preparation of an imitation leather for furnishing is taken, it is spray-pre-primed by applying on the surface 6 grams / pq of CORIPUR GND 245 (Corichem), the pre-base coat is partially dried and it is pressed it with a glazed paper.

[0216] Then there are spray-applied 15 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 85 parts of PRODUCT 3 described above, it is dried under a ventilated oven and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 100°C.

[0217] A drawing is imprinted on the cover by means of a thermostated cylinder at 85°C on which there slides an embossed paper with a drawing such as madras with which there is imparted a pressure of 50 Kg / cm2. There follows the energy curing cross-linking with UV at 120 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1600 mW / cm2at a 420 nm wavelength.

[0218] Then, there are spray-applied 6 grams / pq of a UV-cross-l inkable semi-opaque fixative, consisting of a mixture in a 1:1 ratio of PRODUCT 2 and PRODUCT 1 described above. Then there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 80 °C and then cross-linking with Energy curing with UV at 100 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1000 mW / cm2at 360 nm wavelength.

[0219] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 6 meters per minute.

[0220] This allows to obtain a semi-opaque leather suitable to obtain furnishing items.

[0221] Sample B3 imitation leather for furnishing

[0222] A roll of PA material for the preparation of an imitation leather for furnishing is taken, it is spray-pre-primed by applying on the surface 8 grams / pq of CORIPUR GND 245 (Corichem), the pre-base coat is partially dried and it is pressed it with a glazed paper. Then there are roller coater-applied 15 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 83 parts of CORIGROUND BIO / 70 (Corichem) and 2 parts of a polyureic cross-linking agent CORILINK 300(Corichem), it is dried under a ventilated oven and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 95°C.

[0223] A drawing is imprinted on the cover by means of a thermostated roller at 80°C, on which there slides an embossed paper with a drawing such as a "dollar" which imparts a pressure of 50 Kg / cm2.

[0224] Then, there are spray-applied 10 grams / pq of a glossy fixative consisting of 98 parts of CORIFIX W 89 / OP (Corichem) and 2 parts of an isocyanic cross-linking agent CORILINK 73 (Corichem). Lastly, there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 85 °C.

[0225] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 10 meters per minute.

[0226] This allows to obtain an opaque leather suitable to obtain furnishing items.

[0227] Sample Cl imitation leather for bodywork

[0228] A roll of PU material for the preparation of an imitation leather for furnishing is taken, it is spray-pre-primed by applying on the surface 10 grams / pq of CORIPUR GND 245 (Corichem), the pre-base coat is partially dried and it is pressed with a glazed paper, then there are roller coater-applied 15 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 80 parts of CORIGROUND BIO / 70 (Corichem) and 5 parts of a polyureic cross-linking agent CORILINK 300(Corichem), it is dried under a ventilated oven and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 95°C.

[0229] There is imprinted a drawing such as "fake flower" on the cover by means of a thermostated pre-engraved cylinder at 85°C with which there is imparted a pressure of 50 Kg / cm2.

[0230] Then, there are spray-applied 12 grams / pq of a UV-cross-linkable opaque fixative, that is PRODUCT 4 described above. Then there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 80 °C and then cross-linking with Energy curing with UV at 100 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1400 mW / cm2at 360 nm wavelength.

[0231] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 8 meters per minute.

[0232] This allows to obtain an opaque imitation leather suitable to obtain items for bodywork.

[0233] Sample C2 imitation leather for bodywork

[0234] A roll of PU material for the preparation of an imitation leather for furnishing is taken, it is spray-pre-primed by applying on the surface 10 grams / pq of CORIPUR GND 245 (Corichem), the pre-base coat is partially dried and it is pressed it with a glazed paper. Then there are roller coater-applied 15 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex (Sarnia), 85 parts of PRODUCT 6 described above, it is dried under a ventilated oven at and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 90°C.

[0235] There is imprinted a drawing such as "federica" on the cover by means of a thermostated pre-engraved cylinder at 80°C with which there is imparted a pressure of 45 Kg / cm2.

[0236] There follows the energy curing cross-linking with UV at 120 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1600 mW / cm2at a 360 nm wavelength. Then, there are spray-applied 12 grams / pq of a UV-cross-linkable opaque fixative, that is PRODUCT 4 described above. Then there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 80 °C and then cross-linking with Energy curing with UV at 100 Watts per linear centimetre and irradiation of 1400 mW / cm2at 360 nm wavelength.

[0237] The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 6 meters per minute.

[0238] This allows to obtain an opaque imitation leather suitable to obtain items for bodywork.

[0239] Sample C3 imitation leather for bodywork

[0240] A roll of PU material for the preparation of an imitation leather for furnishing is taken, it is pre-primed by spraying or by means of a layer application machine applying on the surface 8 grams / pq of CORIPUR GND 239 (Corichem), the pre-base coat is partially dried and it is pressed it with a glazed paper.

[0241] Then there are roller coater-applied 14 grams / pq of thermoplastic base coat consisting of a mixture of 15 pigment parts Contex, manufactured by Sarnia, 80 parts of CORIGROUND BIO / 70 (Corichem) and 5 parts of a polyureic cross-linking agent CORILINK 300(Corichem), it is dried under a ventilated oven and then the surface film is softened by passing the leather under an IR lamp at 95°C.

[0242] There is imprinted a drawing such as "fake flower" on the cover by means of a thermostated pre-engraved cylinder at 85°C with which there is imparted a pressure of 50 Kg / cm2.

[0243] Then, there are spray-applied 15 grams / pq of a glossy fixative consisting of 92 parts of SUPRACOR FX 5403 / M (Corichem) and 8 parts of an isocyanic cross-linking agent SUPRACOR CLK 77 (Corichem). Lastly, there follows drying in a hot air tunnel at 85 °C. The entire process is carried out in-line by means of a conveyor belt at speeds of 8 meters per minute.

[0244] This allows to obtain an opaque imitation leather suitable to obtain items for bodywork.

[0245] As comparative samples (footwear reference sample, furniture reference sample, bodywork reference sample), there were considered standard footwear, furnishing and bodywork leather available on the market and therefore finished according to the prior art.

[0246] 1.2 Analysis of finished leather and imitation leather characteristics

[0247] For each of the samples mentioned above, there were measured parameters such as: - flexural strength according to the IUP 20 ISO 5402-1 standard;

[0248] - dry abrasion resistance according to the IUF 450 ISO 11640 standard;

[0249] - wet abrasion resistance according to the IUF 450 ISO 11640 standard;

[0250] - dry adhesion according to the IUF 470 ISO 11644 standard. The results are reported in Table 1 below:

[0251] In the light of the above, it should be observed that all samples obtained according to the method according to the invention fall within the stated ranges with regard to the properties set out above and show physical and / or mechanical and / or chemical characteristics comparable or superior to the products of the prior art.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method for finishing leather or imitation leather (PSP) consecutively comprising the steps of:- applying a base coat to the leather or imitation leather (PSP) to be finished;- drying said base coat;- printing the leather or imitation leather (PSP); wherein between said drying step and said printing step there is carried out a step for the surface softening of the leather or imitation leather (PSP); wherein the product used in said application step is of the thermoplastic type; and wherein said printing step is carried out cold or at a temperature between 40°C -90°C, preferably between 50°C - 70°C, and at a pressure between 30 - 50 Kg / cm2.

2. Method according to claim 1, wherein said softening step is carried out by means of an infrared lamp at a temperature between 70 °C - 120 °C.

3. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the thermoplastic base coat product used in said step for applying a base coat has a softening temperature measured according to the ISO 306 standard below 75°C and / or a post-cross-linking film elasticity measured according to the ASTM 412-C standard comprised between 200% - 800% and / or a glass transition temperature measured according to the ISO 11357 standard comprised between 0°C and - 60°C.

4. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein said thermoplastic product can be cross-linked by irradiation.

5. Method according to the preceding claim, where this thermoplastic product is of the UV curable type.

6. Method according to claim 4 or 5, wherein subsequently to said printing step there is carried out an irradiation cross-linking step.

7. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said printing step is carried out using a pre-engraved roller or a smooth roller which pressure imprints on the leather or imitation leather (PSP) the drawing on an embossed paper.

8. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein subsequently to said printing step, possibly after said irradiation cross-linking step, there is carried out a step for applying a fixative product.

9. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein subsequently to said step for applying a fixative product there is carried out a step for drying said fixative product.

10. Method according to claim 8 or 9 wherein the fixative product can be crosslinked by irradiation.

11. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein said fixative product is of the UV curable type.

12. Method according to any one of claims 8 to the preceding one, wherein subsequently to said step for applying the fixative product or respectively to said step for drying said fixative product there is carried out a further irradiation cross-linking step.

13. Method according to any one of claims 8 to the preceding one, wherein the finished leather or imitation leather (PSP) has a dry bending resistance from 30000 to 250000 cycles, preferably from 40000 to 200000 cycles, even more preferably from 55000 to 150000 cycles according to the IUP 20 ISO 5402-1 standard.

14. Method according to any one of claims 8 to the preceding one, wherein the finished leather or imitation leather (PSP) has a degree of dry adhesion according to the IUF 470 ISO 11644 standard from 2 to 20 N, preferably from 3 to 15 N, even more preferably from 4.5 to 8.8 N.

15. Method according to any one of the preceding claims 8 to the preceding one, wherein the finished leather or imitation leather (PSP) has a dry abrasion resistance according to the IUF 450 ISO 11640 standard between 200 and 4000 cycles, preferably between 300 and 3000 cycles, even more preferably between 500 and 2400 cycles and / or wet abrasion resistance according to the IUF 450 ISO 11640 standard from 25 to 1500 cycles, more preferably from 35 to 1200 cycles, even more preferably from 65 to 720 cycles.

16. A thermoplastic product which can be used in a method according to any one of the preceding claims and which has a softening temperature measured according to the ISO 306 standard below 75°C and / or a post-cross-linking film elasticity measured according to the ASTM 412-C standard comprised between 200% - 800% and / or a glass transition temperature measured according to the ISO 11357 standard comprised between 0°C and - 60°C.

17. A system for finishing leather or imitation leather (PSP) which can be used in a method according to one or more of claims 1 to 15, comprising:- at least one conveyor (10) for leather or imitation leather (PSP);a device for applying (11) a base coat to the leather or imitation leather (PSP) to be finished;- a device (12) for drying said base coat;- a device for the surface softening (13) of the leather or imitation leather (PSP); - a device (14) for printing the leather or imitation leather (PSP), the same being configured for cold-printing or printing at a temperature between 40°C - 90°C, preferably between 50°C - 70°C, and at a pressure between 30 - 50 Kg / cm2; wherein said devices for applying a base coat (11), drying (12), softening (13) and printing (14) are arranged consecutively one with respect to the other along said at least one conveyor (10).

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