Effects of Calcium Content on the Enzymatic Bating of Delimed Hides

Abstract

The effects of calcium content on the enzymatic bating of delimed hide were analyzed by amino acid analysis, tissue staining, and scanning electron microscopy–elemental energy spectrometry. Results show that the content and form of calcium in pelt can affect enzyme activity. The content of calcium in pelt can be adjusted by phosphoric-phosphate deliming to reduce the degree of damage caused by enzymes to elastin and collagen. The calcium bound in pelt can be further removed by deliming using a calcium chelator, thus effectively improving the efficiency of enzyme action. When the calcium content is lower than 0.6%, the removal degree of elastin by enzymes and the loosening effect to collagen fiber can be significantly improved. This research offers important guidance to improve the leather bating process.