What is Chrome-free Zeolite Tanning Agent CAS 68989-22-0?

It is a synthetic sodium aluminosilicate based on Zeolite A, supplied as a fine white to off-white powder. The product is designed for leather tanning and retanning as an inorganic, chrome-free alternative.

How does this zeolite agent produce wet white leather?

In primary tanning, the zeolite particles interact with collagen fibers and replace basic chrome sulfate in wet white production. The resulting leather has a shrinkage temperature around 75-80 C on its own, and the white base supports bright pastel dyeing.

Can Chrome-free Zeolite Tanning Agent be combined with vegetable tannins or aldehydes?

Yes. It is highly synergistic with vegetable tannins in pre-tanning or retanning because the zeolite helps disperse large tannin molecules and improve penetration. Combining it with vegetable tannins or aldehydes can also raise the final shrinkage temperature.

What pH and particle size should be considered for leather application?

The product typically gives a pH of 9.0-11.0 in a 5% suspension and has an average particle size of 4.0 um or less. This fine particle size supports penetration into the collagen matrix, while process pH should be adjusted according to the hide type and float recipe.

How does this zeolite tanning agent compare with glutaraldehyde-based chrome-free systems?

Zeolite is an inorganic mineral option and avoids aldehyde volatility and sensitization concerns associated with glutaraldehyde. It is used for environmentally oriented wet white processing, though formulation and process checks are needed to achieve the target feel, softness, and shrinkage temperature.

Chrome-free Zeolite Tanning Agent CAS 68989-22-0

Chrome-free Zeolite Tanning Agent CAS 68989-22-0 is a sustainable, inorganic aluminosilicate mineral chemically based on the synthetic Zeolite A structure , functioning primarily as a heavy-metal-free alternative to traditional Chromium salts in leather production. Unlike conventional chrome tanning which yields "Wet Blue," this eco-friendly agent interacts with collagen fibers to produce "Wet White" leather, eliminating the risk of Hexavalent Chromium (Cr VI) formation and significantly improving the biodegradability of leather waste. We provide professional access to this material with competitive factory pricing and the ability to meet customized specifications (optimized particle size for deep penetration) for various manufacturing requirements. Our commitment to technical transparency ensures that every shipment is accompanied by comprehensive MSDS, TDS, COA documentation to support your quality assurance protocols, and we maintain capacity for consistent bulk supply to facilitate large-scale industrial operations.

CAS: 68989-22-0
Synonyms: Sodium Aluminosilicate, Synthetic Zeolite A, Eco-tanning agent, Wet White tanning agent, Zeolites NaA, Chrome-free leather auxiliary
Einecs: 273-541-5
Molecular Formula: Na12(AlO2)12(SiO2)12.27H2O
Grade: Tanning Grade / Technical Grade
Package: 25kg Multi-ply paper bags or 650kg Jumbo Bags, palletized and shrink-wrapped.

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Product Description

1 Physicochemical Properties

2 Applications

3 Quality Assurance

4 Storage & Safety

Physicochemical Properties

Our Zeolite Tanning Agent is processed to ensure specific particle size distribution for optimal penetration into the collagen matrix.

Property	Specification
Appearance	Fine White to Off-White Powder
Purity (Active Zeolite Content)	≥ 90%
pH Value (5% Suspension)	9.0 – 11.0
Average Particle Size (D50)	≤ 4.0 µm
Bulk Density	0.45 – 0.65 g/cm³
Aluminum Oxide (Al₂O₃)	26% – 32%
Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂)	30% – 38%
Solubility	Insoluble in water (forms stable suspension); Soluble in strong acids
Loss on Ignition (LOI)	≤ 15%

Applications

This product is engineered specifically for the leather tanning and retanning processes, offering versatility across various hide types.

1. Primary Tanning (Wet White Production) Used as the main tanning agent to replace Basic Chrome Sulfate. It interacts with the carboxyl groups of the collagen fibers. It produces leather with a shrinkage temperature (Ts) of up to 75°C-80°C alone, or higher when combined with vegetable tannins or aldehydes. The resulting leather is white, allowing for brilliant pastel dyeing results.

2. Retanning and Filling In the retanning stage, it acts as a selective filling agent. Because of its specific cage-like molecular structure, it selectively fills the looser parts of the hide (flanks and bellies), improving the cutting yield. It enhances the fullness and tightness of the grain.

3. Automotive and Upholstery Leather Due to its mineral nature, it does not contribute to fogging or VOC emissions, making it ideal for high-specification automotive interiors where “Chrome-free” is increasingly a standard requirement.

4. Eco-friendly/Infant Leather Goods Ideal for products requiring hypoallergenic properties, as it eliminates heavy metal risks associated with chrome tanning.

Quality Assurance

Reliability is paramount in leather production. Our manufacturing process adheres to ISO 9001:2015 standards. We employ advanced analytical techniques to ensure batch-to-batch consistency:

X-Ray Diffraction (XRD): Used to verify the crystalline structure and phase purity of the Zeolite, ensuring the correct aluminosilicate framework is present.
Laser Diffraction Particle Size Analysis: We strictly control particle size (<4µm) to ensure the powder penetrates the hide cross-section rather than depositing on the surface.
Heavy Metal Screening: Rigorous testing ensures the product is free from unintended heavy metal contamination (Lead, Cadmium, Mercury).

Storage & Safety

Storage Conditions:

Moisture Control: Zeolites are highly hygroscopic (water-absorbing). Store in a cool, dry, and ventilated warehouse. Keep bags tightly sealed.
Segregation: Store away from volatile acids and strong odors, as the product’s porous structure can adsorb atmospheric contaminants.
Shelf Life: 24 months from the date of manufacture when stored in original unopened packaging.

Safety Precautions:

Respiratory Protection: This product is a fine powder. Inhalation of dust may cause respiratory irritation. Operators must wear NIOSH-approved dust masks (N95 or P2) during weighing and dosing.
Skin & Eye Contact: It is alkaline. Wear safety goggles and protective gloves. In case of eye contact, flush thoroughly with water for 15 minutes.
Spill Management: Sweep up spills gently to avoid creating dust clouds.
Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS) for comprehensive safety data.

Switch to Sustainable Tanning Today. For technical data sheets (TDS), application recipes, or commercial inquiries, please contact our export team.

📧 Email: info@industrochem.com

FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain

Q:
What is Chrome-free Zeolite Tanning Agent CAS 68989-22-0?

A: It is a synthetic sodium aluminosilicate based on Zeolite A, supplied as a fine white to off-white powder. The product is designed for leather tanning and retanning as an inorganic, chrome-free alternative.
Q:
How does this zeolite agent produce wet white leather?

A: In primary tanning, the zeolite particles interact with collagen fibers and replace basic chrome sulfate in wet white production. The resulting leather has a shrinkage temperature around 75-80 C on its own, and the white base supports bright pastel dyeing.
Q:
Can Chrome-free Zeolite Tanning Agent be combined with vegetable tannins or aldehydes?

A: Yes. It is highly synergistic with vegetable tannins in pre-tanning or retanning because the zeolite helps disperse large tannin molecules and improve penetration. Combining it with vegetable tannins or aldehydes can also raise the final shrinkage temperature.
Q:
What pH and particle size should be considered for leather application?

A: The product typically gives a pH of 9.0-11.0 in a 5% suspension and has an average particle size of 4.0 um or less. This fine particle size supports penetration into the collagen matrix, while process pH should be adjusted according to the hide type and float recipe.
Q:
How does this zeolite tanning agent compare with glutaraldehyde-based chrome-free systems?

A: Zeolite is an inorganic mineral option and avoids aldehyde volatility and sensitization concerns associated with glutaraldehyde. It is used for environmentally oriented wet white processing, though formulation and process checks are needed to achieve the target feel, softness, and shrinkage temperature.

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