Characteritzation and evaluation of four types of finish topcoats

The aim of this work is the characterization and evaluation of four types of topcoats used in leather finishing. IR spectra of films of the products under study have been recorded, as well as spectra of the finished leather samples using the same products. The samples were tested in the laboratory to evaluate their physical resistances and fastness properties. A comparison of results shows that all the products studied for each type of topcoat present practically the same functional groups; there are no significant differences between the recorded spectra of each of the products in a group and the spectra once they have been applied to the leather. In addition, there are no significant differences in the physical resistances and fastnesses obtained, except for the organoleptic properties (level of gloss, feel, etc.). However, strong evidence seems to indicate that topcoat improves wet properties of the finished leather. Moreover, the study of the IR spectra both of the products and finished leather samples after an accelerated ageing test provides more objective data rather than that obtained from traditional methods.