Eco leather - a relatively new material that has gained enormous popularity in various areas of human life, from clothing to home furniture.
History of origin
The 20th century was marked by the birth of a new and now popular material - eco-leather. The relevance of this discovery was due to the fact that people were seriously thinking about preserving the animal world. Many wildlife activists have protested the killing of animals for leather production. Dermantin was first used as a substitute, which was significantly inferior in quality to the natural material.
Research continued until scientists from the USA and Japan introduced the whole world (in 1963 and 1964, respectively) to a universal substitute for natural leather - eco-leather.
After the launch of the production process for its production, the number of killed animals decreased significantly. This move had a positive impact on the environment, as leather production generated a lot of waste.
What does it consist of?
Eco-leather is a two-layer material that consists of natural fabric and polyurethane. It is produced artificially by applying a microscopic polyurethane film to a fabric base. The base can be cotton or polyester. The first is made from plant fibers, and the second is made from synthetic polyester fabric.
Microporous film has excellent permeability properties, so eco-leather products do not float. Depending on its thickness, the performance characteristics of eco-leather and the scope of application are determined.
The advantageous features of this material are:
- Temperature resistance. The material can easily withstand various changes without losing its basic properties.
- Elasticity. It is easy to produce various goods from it.
- Hygroscopicity. Does not collect condensation on its surface.
- Appearance. The structure is completely reminiscent of genuine leather.
- Environmental friendliness and safety. The components do not cause allergies or other side effects, and have no third-party chemical odors.
Attention! Eco-leather is afraid of mechanical damage. This damage removes the top layer of polyurethane and exposes the base. If damaged, the product will lose its appearance and properties.
Production
The production line is set up in specially equipped closed installations at chemical industry factories. First, a specified amount and thickness of polyurethane film is applied to the base. Due to the fact that it does not contain plasticizers, the finished material is capable of permeable air. After this, they are joined and embossed on special rollers. The result is a material that resembles natural leather in appearance with its structure and characteristic lines.
Important! In order to distinguish genuine material from artificial material, you need to try to heat it with your palms. The leather will quickly become warm in your hands, unlike eco-leather, which will have a cold temperature longer.
What does quality depend on?
The main qualitative characteristic of this material is its thickness. The larger the applied polyurethane microfilm, the higher the quality indicator of eco-leather. It all depends on the purposes for which the finished material will be used. The scope of application is wide:
- furniture manufacturing;
- cloth;
- shoes;
- accessories;
- car upholstery;
- bags, etc.
In order for the material to serve for a long time without loss of quality, it is necessary:
- Constantly wipe the products with a soft damp cloth.
- Treat with water-repellent agents.
- Do not use products containing abrasives for cleaning.
- Wipe the surface dry after each cleaning.
- If persistent stains or dirt appear, it is recommended to use special care products for eco-leather products.
Most people consider eco-leather to be an unsafe material and, therefore, are afraid to purchase products made from it. It is worth familiarizing yourself with its characteristics in order to radically change your attitude towards it. Eco-leather is beautiful, practical, stylish and comfortable.
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