Abstract:
The aim of this research was to determine the tanning content
of Henna leaves (Lawsonia inermis) and study the factors that affect the
leaching process. Application of extract was made to produce crust and
finished leather of sheep skins.
The factorial factors and their levels were namely:
Temperature (30-60) C ○ , time (30-60) minutes, solvent solid ratio
(1:20-1:30) and degree of mixing (without -with). These factors were
replicated towice and found to be significant. Thus the operating levels
were specified and all trials were made at the specified factorial levels.
The extract produced was used for retannage of wet blue sheep skins
and processed through crust until finishing.
The leather produced was analysed for physical testing, including
tensile strength, elongation, load at grain crack, load at grain burst, and
thickness. The results were compared with the standard specification and
found to be satisfactory. The color of the product was good and fast to
light.
In conclusion it is adviced that Henna leaves (Lawsonia inermis )
can be used in powder form for retannge and dyeing of leather. This is
because the leaching time is short and is less than the time requind for the
retanning process.
