In a recent development, the Central Leather Research Institute (CSIR-CLRI), Chennai, announced the creation of a new amylase-based biocatalyst. This new product is designed to speed up and simplify the process of leather processing, particularly in the pre-tanning stage. Its use leads to an eco-friendly outcome by significantly reducing environmental pollution.
The Innovative Biocatalyst from CSIR-CLRI
The new biocatalyst has several notable features. Foremost among these is its ability to drastically cut down the time taken for skin processing. This is particularly true at the pre-tanning or soaking stage. The significance of this is that the pre-tanning phase is responsible for generating 60-70% of total pollution during the processing of leather.
The use of this biocatalyst brings about significant reductions in effluent discharge, owing to a remarkable threefold reduction in water usage. Significantly, no chemicals are used in the process and this results in a decrease in the chemical oxygen demand by an estimated 35%.
Durability And Reusability of The New Biocatalyst
The researchers have ensured that the biocatalyst is robust and durable. It can withstand high temperatures, up to approximately 90° C, and remain stable under a range of pH levels. As such, estimations show that up to 95% of the enzyme in the biocatalyst can be recovered and reused after a single process. This contributes to the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of the product.
| Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Time-efficient | Speeds up pre-tanning stage |
| Eco-Friendly | Reduces pollution by 60-70% |
| Water-efficient | Reduces water usage by threefold |
| Chemical-free | Lowers chemical oxygen demand by 35% |
| High-Temperature Stable | Can work at approximately 90° C |
| High pH Stable | Remains stable in varying pH levels |
| Reusable | Up to 95% of the enzyme can be recovered |
About Biocatalyst and Chemical Oxygen Demand(COD)
Biocatalysts are enzymes or proteins that increase or catalyze the rate of biochemical reactions. In the case of the amylase-based biocatalyst, it works as a protein that facilitates the breakdown of starch into simple sugar molecules, thus enhancing the rate of the biochemical reaction.
The Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) refers to the amount of oxygen that is required to fully oxidize all the organic carbon into carbon dioxide and water. This concept is instrumental in determining the quantity of oxygen utilized by a body due to bacterial action in the water.
Central Leather Research Institute (CSIR-CLRI)
The CSIR-CLRI was established in 1948 with the intention of strengthening the internal capacity of the country to generate, assimilate, and innovate technologies for the leather industry. Its latest development, the amylase-based biocatalyst, is a testament to its commitment to ongoing innovation and sustainability in the leather sector.
