Minimizing salt pollution in leather manufacturing: A plant-based alternative using Justicia gendarussa

Sumaiya Mim; Md. Jawad Hasan; Tamish Mobash Shira Urmi; Jubayer Islam Nafim

doi:10.35208/ert.1767325

Authors

Sumaiya Mim University of Dhaka, Institute of Leather Engineering and Technology https://orcid.org/0009-0008-4735-3141
Md. Jawad Hasan University of Dhaka, Institute of Leather Engineering and Technology https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7908-278X
Tamish Mobash Shira Urmi University of Dhaka, Institute of Leather Engineering and Technology https://orcid.org/0009-0007-4530-9094
Jubayer Islam Nafim University of Dhaka, Institute of Leather Engineering and Technology https://orcid.org/0009-0004-6896-8445

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35208/ert.1767325

Keywords:

Preservation, plant-based curing, Justicia gendarussa, salinity, eco-friendly approach

Abstract

Traditional preservation of raw hides and skins typically relies on high concentrations of sodium chloride (NaCl), which contributes to increased salinity and pollution in tannery effluents. This study explores a more sustainable alternative by incorporating Justicia gendarussa leaf powder with a significantly reduced amount of salt. Initial trials using varying proportions of the leaf powder (5% to 20%) identified the 15% leaf powder with 10% salt formulation as the most effective based on physical condition and organoleptic evaluation. This optimized combination was applied in a 30-day preservation trial and compared against the standard method using 40% salt. The experimental skins remained stable throughout the preservation period, exhibiting no odor, hair slip, or microbial damage, and retained their softness and flexibility. Analytical results—including moisture content, shrinkage temperature, bacterial count, FTIR spectroscopy, SEM and DSC thermograms—confirmed effective collagen preservation and structural stability. Notably, the soaking liquor from the experimental method showed a substantial reduction in pollution indicators, with TDS, electrical conductivity, and NaCl levels significantly lower than the conventional process. Mechanical testing of the resulting leather showed that the strength and performance characteristics fulfilled or surpassed the standard criteria for shoe upper leather. These findings support the potential of Justicia gendarussa as a viable and eco-friendly approach for raw hide preservation, contributing to reduced environmental load and aligning with key sustainable development objectives (SDGs 6 and 12).

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