Ludwigshafen, Germany - At the All China Leather Exhibition (ACLE) 1-3 Sept 2010, BASF will feature new leather chemicals, including two polyurethane based finishes.
The first of these new environmentally-friendly finish is Astacin Novomatt DM, which BASF says is an innovative, polyurethane-based product with intrinsic matting, free of inorganic (silica) or other matting generating additives. Also on show is Astacin Finish PR which is free of NMP (the solvent N-methyl pyrollidone) and has improved hydrolysis resistance, BASF says.
The Finish PR material is a soft, elastic polyurethane binder for base and colour coats. BASF recommends it for all types of leather that require high levels of dye fastness and hydrolysis resistance -- especially for automotive and upholstery leather and for athletic shoes.
BASF describes the innovative Novomatt DM finish as polyurethane-based, with intrinsic matting. Leathers finishes with this ingredient show "a very matt surface that can not be repolished," says the group. "They have a pleasant, soft and warm handle and fulfill highest standards of fastness," and the finish is especially recommended for use on upholstery leather and automotive leather.
BASF said it will also be telling customers how to optimise their processes for water reduction in beamhouse and wet-end recipes will also be presented. Beamhouse processes in leather production are those that follow curing, but come before the tanning of the skin, and have the aim of eliminating substances not wanted in the leather such as keratin.
The All China Leather Exhibition is at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre: BASF will be in Hall W2 at Booth D 11.
"Environmental awareness and sustainable development are more important than ever before. We are aware of our role and responsibility. Therefore our focus lies on eco products and optimised processes," said Joachim Henkmann, head of BASF´s leather business in East Asia, in a company statement.
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