Obtaining and Characterization of a Product with Antifugal Properties Based on Essential Oils and Natural Waxes for Finishing Natural Leathers

摘要

Biological factors (fungi, bacteria) may damage leather and leather items by degradation of the grain (stains, matting, etc.), may lead to reduced physical-mechanical strength of leather products and may cause mycoses for some people. In order to prevent the appearance and development of various types of microorganisms, to improve leather resistance to biological attack and to prevent damage to physical-mechanical and chemical properties of leather, it is treated with certain biocides. The disadvantage of these biocides is that they have a certain toxicity for humans and for the environment. Resistance to biological factors can be increased through finishing and maintenance treatments for leather and leather products. Essential oils are very concentrated in active chemical elements and have various properties: they are antiseptic, antibacterial, immunostimulant, etc. Coriander essential oil has bactericidal and fungicidal properties. This paper presents the process of obtaining and characterization, by physico-chemical and spectral analyses, of new products based on natural oils (coriander essential oil), ethyl alcohol, non-ionogenic surfactants from the category of polyethoxylated fatty alcohols and wax emulsions containing beeswax, lanolin and non-ionogenic emulsifier. These products improve leather and leather product resistance to fungi, while ensuring a higher quality of leather objects.