Bio-Based Faux Leather Processing for Strength and Softness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods fail to produce a bio-based, vegan imitation leather material with reduced environmental impact that meets the stringent physical and mechanical requirements for applications like bags, shoes, and accessories, while maintaining the aesthetic appearance and softness of natural leather.
Innovation Solution
A process involving the treatment of bio-based polyurethane coagulate with synthetic tannins and application of a polyurethane adhesive, using significantly less water and chemicals, specifically avoiding chromium and metal treatments, to create a durable and mechanically resistant material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional animal hide tanning processes are used, then the material achieves sufficient strength and durability, but the environmental impact increases due to heavy use of chromium and metal treatments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the tanning process by replacing chromium and metal salts with plant-based tannins and organic adhesives. This substitution maintains the leather-making function while eliminating harmful substances, directly resolving the contradiction between strength and environmental impact
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses bio-based, biodegradable materials such as plant tannins and natural adhesives instead of persistent synthetic chemicals. These natural materials provide the necessary treatment effects but decompose harmlessly, reducing long-term environmental contamination while maintaining material performance
2Object-affected harmful factors
If bio-based polyurethane coagulate is used as raw material, then the environmental sustainability improves, but the mechanical strength and durability are insufficient for applications like bags and shoes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite structure by combining bio-based polyurethane coagulate with plant tannins and organic adhesives. This composite approach integrates the environmental benefits of bio-based materials with the strength-enhancing properties of natural tanning agents, achieving both sustainability and mechanical performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different treatments to different aspects of the material: plant tannins are applied to enhance mechanical strength and durability, while organic adhesives are used to maintain flexibility and workability. This localized application of different natural treatments allows the material to meet multiple performance requirements simultaneously
3Strength
If the material is treated with extensive chemicals to improve durability, then the mechanical resistance improves, but the workability and softness to the touch deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the pH and chemical composition parameters by using plant tannins and organic adhesives with natural properties that enhance durability without over-hardening the material. This controlled chemical parameter adjustment maintains both mechanical resistance and workability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The process results in a material with improved mechanical strength, durability, and softness, analogous to natural leather, while reducing environmental impact and avoiding hazardous chemicals, suitable for various applications including fashion and furniture sectors.
Implementation Method 1
applying a polyurethane adhesive agent to a polyurethane from renewable sources
Implementation Method 2
treating a bio-based polyurethane coagulate obtained from renewable sources with synthetic tannins
Data Source
Figure 1a~1d
AI summary
The present invention refers to a process with reduced environmental impact for the production of a bio-based imitation leather material by treating a polyurethane coagulate, which allows to obtain a vegan material, printable to achieve the same appearance as natural leather. This material has also greatly improved physical and mechanics characteristics that make it useful for the most varied applications, in the fashion sector, in particular to create and / or decorate clothing, footwear and leather goods, in the furniture and design sector, and in any other related sector.