Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A hide or pelt processing agent suitable for use in leather treating compositions comprising a N-alkyl-heterocyclic amide having C.sub.6 to C.sub.18 alkyl substitution on the hetero-nitrogen atom; such as, for example N-octyl-2-pyrrolidone, N-dodecyl-2-pyrrolidone, N-cocoalkyl-2-pyrrolidone and N-tallowalkyl-2-pyrrolidone, employed in an amount between about 0.01 and about 20% by weight based on the total composition of a standard leather treating solution, suspension or emulsion. The present composition containing one or more of the N-heterocyclic amides can be applied in various curing, tanning and finishing stages of leather treatment to produce processed hides and pelts of improved dyeability, flexibility and moisture content. The present amides can be used directly as an adjuvant in existing formulations to hasten curing and tanning, as an aqueous hydrating solution following beaming, as a sharpening agent in a lime bath for removal of epidermis and hair, as a post-tanning wash solution to prevent curling and minimize shrinkage and, in finishing operations, as a softening, moisturizing and penetrating agent or as an additive to conventional finishing solutions, including bleaching, scouring, fat-liquoring, oiling and/or stuffing solutions, dispersions or emulsions. The present composition is also useful as a dye or pigment carrier to provide improved uniformity and depth of shade in the dyed leather product.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim