| Abstract [eng] |
The replacement of chemicals by enzymes, is an alternative for the reduction of the environmental impact in leather manufacturing. UAB „Baltijos Enzimai“ recently released new enzyme preparation Vilzim PRO ALK. It is a bacterial alkaline protease produced from a non- genetically modified Bacillus lichenifomis. It is used under alkaline conditions. This work analyzes the leather processes, when enzymes are used for the unhairing of hide. In enzymatic unhairing process it is used enzyme preparation Vilzim PRO ALK, sodium sulfide and sodium aluminate. This investigation shows how various unhairing parameters influece hides structure and properties. They were compared to hide properties obtained conventionally. Optimal coditions and the most appropriate amout of enzyme preparation were indetified. Herewith, pretanning processes were tested and chromed leathers properties were evaluated. Enzymatic process show better results in comparison to chemical process, moreover, chromed leathers properties were improved, when such leathers are produced while using enzymatic unhairing process. The results allow conclusion that used enzyme preparation characterizes by good unhairing features. |
