THE RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOR LEATHER AND SYNTHETIC MATERIALS (FILK) IN FREIBERG HAS STUDIED AND TESTED A NUMBER OF ALTERNATIVE MATERIALS AGAINST LEATHER

摘要

The paper, Comparison of the Technical Performance of Leather, Artificial Leather, and Trendy Alternatives not only examines the differences in make-up of alternative materials versus leather, it tests the performance qualities required in footwear, apparel and gloves.The report observes, 'Leather is a bio-based and biodegradable material with a tradition nearly as long as mankind. For centuries, it was used as a strong and long-lasting material with a broad spectrum of materials properties. Leather was used as protective and decorative clothing for sports goods and as technical material. Processing allowed adjusting the leather properties from a hard board-like appearance, e.g., as sole leather to very soft touch textile-like glove leathers. To manufacture shoes, leather is made hydrophobic, and as wash leather, it absorbs much liquid.'