Phosphorous compounds in leather industry

Abstract

The possible applications of phosphorus compounds in leather-making are reviewed. Polyphosphoric acid or its salts are used as (a) pretanning agent in vegetable tanning and (b) pretanning or retaining agent or complexing component in chrome lanning, Polyphosphates are also water softeners, The phospho-compound tetrakis (hydroxy methyl) phosphonium chloride is a good tanning agent in the presence of resorcinol. Phosphatides and alkyl phospho-esters are complexing lubricants. Chrome complexes of alkyl phosphoesters are water proofing-agents. Phospho-acrylates are good additives to acrylic finishes for impairing flame-proof characterstics. Poly-fluoro alkyl phosphates impart oil repellent characterstics in leathers. Triaryl phosphates are good plasticisers for vinyl and cellulosie finishes; they are also flame-retardents.