Evaluation of the leather fatliquoring potential of sulphonated Afzelia africana aril cap oil

Abstract The synthesis, properties, characterization and sulphonation of Afzelia africana aril cap oil were examined to establish its leather fatliquoring potential. The analysis of the Afzelia africana aril cap oil before and after the completion of sulphonation process was carried out in order to confirm the modification of the oil. The physicochemical properties showed a marked difference between both analyzed oils as the melting point, acid value, free fatty acid, iodine value, saponification value and % SO3 of the unsulphonated/sulphonated oil were observed to be 6.39 °C; 19.90 °C, 12.99 mg KOH/g; 0.50 mg KOH/g, 6.50; 5.25, 77 g iodine/100g; 21 g iodine/100g, 185 mg KOH; 176 mg KOH and nil; 3.92 % respectively. The fatliquoring potential was examined and compared with commercial fatliquor using standard methods. A significant improvement in the lubrication and mechanical properties of the leather treated with the sulphonated Afzelia africana aril cap oil was revealed by Sudan stain and Tensile strength; Double edge Tear; Elongation at break test results respectively. The improved lubrication and mechanical properties of the treated leather compared favourably with commercial fatliquor. This study shows that aril caps of A. africana of no commercial value can be a source of fatliquor for the leather industry.