Chrome–Free Tanning Process of Thamnaconus septentrionalis Skin

The aim of this work is to develop a utilization of waste Thamnaconus septentrionalis skin resources. For this purpose, the tissue structure of T. septentrionalis skin and the basic nutrient composition were determined, and two types of fish leather: Chrome-free (NC) and Chrome (C) tanned fish leather were prepared in this study. The results obtained showed that leather fibers were more uniformly distributed and better dispersed after tanning with chrome–free tanning agents, and the mechanical properties of NC–fish leather were nearly identical to those of C–fish leather. The shrinkage temperatures of NC– and C–fish leather, were 80.6 °C ± 0.6 °C and 94.5 °C ± 0.7 °C, respectively, which were consistent with the TG thermal stability results (306 °C < 320 °C). All results confirm the feasibility of preparing chrome–free fish leather from T. septentrionalis skin, which would promote sustainability by reducing environmental pollution, conserving resources, and supporting the development of green industries.