Enhancing performance properties of conventional leather finishing topcoat by incorporating metal oxide based formulations

Content: ZnO nanoparticles were developed by 1:2 ratios of Zinc sulphate heptahydrate and Sodium hydroxide by using precipitation method. The structure, morphology of ZnO nanoparticles were investigated by using XRay Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Transmission electron Microscopy. X-Ray Diffraction confirms the formation and average crystallite size of ZnO nanoparticles. Scanning Electron Microscopy studies shows the ZnO nanoparticles were in spherical in structure. These ZnO nanoparticles were used in different ratios along with conventional finishing formulations and coated on the leather surface. The performance properties such as water fastness, rub fastness and flexing resistance were evaluated. Application of ZnO nanoparticles in leather finishing showed significant improvement in overall performance properties than conventional finishing formulations. XRD confirms the formation of ZnO nanoparticles (wurtzite structure) at 36.67° (101) plane and the particles size was in the range of 43 nm. SEM image shows that the particles are in the spherical structure wheras EDAX investigate the stoichiometry and chemical purity of the samples to confirm the presence of zinc and oxygen. Optimum quantity up to 2-5 g/L of the season of ZnO nanoparticle is desirable for upgrading the value of leathers by improving color fastness to water, rub fastness and flexing resistance (wet & dry) properties significantly in cationic (wet), NC lacquer emulsions and PU top coat dispersions in finishing formulations. Take-Away: Optimum quantity up to 2-5 g/L of the season of ZnO nanoparticle is desirable for upgrading the value of leathers by improving color fastness to water, rub fastness and flexing resistance (wet & dry) properties significantly in cationic (wet), NC lacquer emulsions and PU top coat dispersions in finishing formulations