Deoiled Soy Lecithin Powder (LeciPOW95P) is a valuable additive in leather processing, primarily due to its emulsifying, conditioning, and lubricating properties. It is a processed form of lecithin that has been refined to remove most of the oil content, making it more stable and easier to handle in leather manufacturing. Here are some key ways it is used in leather processing:
- Leather Softening and Conditioning
Lubrication: Deoiled soy lecithin powder acts as a lubricant during leather processing. It reduces the friction between leather fibers, which helps in softening the leather and improving its flexibility. This results in leather that is more supple and comfortable to handle, with a soft touch and better drape.
Moisture Retention: Lecithin helps retain moisture in leather, preventing it from becoming too dry or brittle. This is especially important during the tanning process, where moisture retention ensures the leather remains pliable.
- Improved Dyeing and Finishing
Dye Penetration: Lecithin can help improve the uniformity of dye penetration into leather fibers. Its emulsifying properties ensure that dyes and finishes are more evenly distributed across the leather, reducing the risk of uneven coloration or blotches.
Polishing: Lecithin can enhance the surface finish of leather. After the dyeing or coating process, it can contribute to a smoother, more polished surface by reducing friction during handling and finishing, leading to a more consistent and glossy appearance.
- Waterproofing and Protective Coatings
Enhancing Coating Durability: When used in combination with other compounds, deoiled lecithin can improve the durability of waterproof or protective coatings applied to leather. Its emulsifying properties ensure that the protective coatings bond effectively with the leather surface, enhancing water resistance and increasing the leather’s longevity.
Anti-oxidative Effect: Lecithin has some natural antioxidant properties, which can help protect the leather from oxidative damage over time, maintaining the color and quality of the leather.
- Improvement of Leather's Texture
Smoother Texture: The powder form of deoiled lecithin helps achieve a smooth and even texture, which is desirable in high-end leather goods. It reduces the occurrence of rough spots and imperfections on the leather's surface.
Gloss Enhancement: Deoiled soy lecithin can also enhance the leather’s natural sheen, helping create a soft, glossy finish without the need for additional synthetic chemicals that might harm the leather or reduce its quality.
- Sustainability Aspect
Natural and Biodegradable: Being derived from soy, deoiled lecithin is a more sustainable and biodegradable alternative to synthetic chemical additives. It aligns with the increasing demand for eco-friendly and natural products in leather processing, supporting sustainability goals within the industry.
- Application Method:
Deoiled soy lecithin powder is typically added to the leather processing stages where lubrication, emulsification, and conditioning are required, such as during tanning, dyeing, or finishing.
It is often dissolved in water or other solvents, or it may be blended with other chemicals and emulsifiers to create a treatment solution. The mixture is then applied to the leather through spraying, brushing, or immersion.
- Benefits of Deoiled Soy Lecithin Powder in Leather Processing:
- Enhanced Softness: Leather becomes softer and more pliable, improving its quality and feel.
- Improved Dyeing: Helps achieve more even, deeper dye penetration.
- Increased Durability: Improves leather’s resistance to cracking and drying, prolonging its lifespan.
- Eco-Friendly: As a plant-based ingredient, deoiled lecithin supports more sustainable and natural processing methods in the leather industry.