The leather chemicals market is proven to be a vital component in the textile industry, offering a wide range of chemicals used in the processing of leather. These chemicals are leveling up the quality of leather products by enhancing their quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Market participants are constantly innovating to meet the evolving needs of the industry, driving competition and technological advancements. This blog delves into the world of chemicals used in leather making and explores the market potential and 10 leading companies in this growing sector.
Understanding the Potential of Leather Chemicals Market
The leather chemicals market has been expanding rapidly in recent years. These chemicals are heavily used in making apparel, footwear, and automotive accessories. They are divided into three main types, such as pre-tanning, tanning, and finishing chemicals, and are used at different stages of leather production. Chemicals play a vital role in enhancing the color, texture, aesthetics, and performance of the leather.
According to Extrapolate's recent report, the global leather chemicals market was recorded at $8.3 billion in 2021 and is expected to be valued at $12.4 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% over 2022-28. Some popular chemicals used in leather production include synthetic-tanned leather, aldehyde-tanned leather, vegetable-tanned leather, alum-tanned leather, and chromium-tanned leather. This process involves extensive chemical toxicity, water consumption, and waste emissions, such as phthalates and heavy metals, which have severe environmental impacts. Hence, adopting sustainable and eco-friendly practices is important.
What Chemicals Are Used in the Leather Industry?
In the leather industry, various chemicals are used in the leather production process. These include tanning agents such as chromium, vegetable tannins, and aldehydes, which help to stabilize and preserve the leather. Additionally, dyes and pigments are used to color the leather, while finishing agents like waxes and oils enhance its appearance and feel. It also includes other chemicals like biocides, surfactants, and solvents for cleaning, preservation, and processing. As these chemicals are hazardous, lather makers need to adhere to strict environmental regulations and safety measures to minimize their impact on the environment and workers' health.
Top 10 Companies in Leather Chemicals in 2024
Below is an outline of the top 10 leather chemicals companies :
1. Bayer AG
Bayer AG is a prominent player in the leather chemicals market, offering a range of products for the leather industry. The company is known for its significant efforts and contributions to the industry, providing high-quality chemicals and solutions for leather tanning and treatment.
2. TFL Ledertechnik GmbH
TFL Ledertechnik GmbH is one of the leading leather chemicals companies that offer a wide range of chemical solutions to the leather sector. It acquired Lanxess AG's organic leather chemicals company in August 2020. This acquisition has strengthened TFL's position in the industry, showcasing its commitment to innovation and growth.
3. Elmentis Global
Elmentis Global is recognized as a significant player in the leather chemicals market, offering a range of products and solutions for leather tanning and treatment. The company develops high-value additives to improve customer products and positively impact the world. It also uses rheology, surface modification, and formulation to address challenges in personal care, construction, industrial coatings, and plastics.
4. Stahl International B.V.
Stahl International B.V. is a major player in supplying various leather chemicals and is known for its comprehensive range of products and solutions for leather treatment. It offers sustainable leather coating solutions for automotive, fashion, footwear, and interiors. Its portfolio includes a wet-end chemicals portfolio, ensuring high-quality leather production sustainably. This innovative approach contributes to a better world by improving durability and reducing environmental impact.
5. Texapel
Texapel is a notable player in the leather chemicals market, providing a diverse range of products and solutions for leather treatment. With 80 years of experience, the company offers high-quality tanning chemicals with a production capacity of 22,000 metric tons. The company serves several sectors across the globe, including footwear, fashion, and leather.
6. Chemtan Company, Inc.
Chemtan Company, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of waterproof leather chemicals, with a strong focus on developing, producing, and marketing chemicals for the leather tanning industry. Its product line for chemicals used for leather includes CHEMOL 411, CHEMTAN R-108, and CHEMTAN ECO-FIX. These specialty chemicals show its commitment to serving the leather industry.
7. Zschimmer & Schwarz Chemie GmbH
Zschimmer & Schwarz Chemie GmbH is a key player, known for its comprehensive range of leather products. The company uses auxiliaries to achieve universal processing characteristics and unique features like softness, fullness, texture, and robustness. Samia S.p.A. is a subsidiary of the Zschimmer & Schwarz Group, offering sustainable leather processing solutions and bisphenol-free retaining agents.
8. Clariant AG
Clariant AG is one of the major leather chemicals companies. It offers an array of specialty chemicals that push boundaries and focus on excellence. The company aims to deliver sustainable and high-value specialty chemicals for leather production.
9. Zschimmer & Schwarz Chemie GmbH
Zschimmer & Schwarz Chemie GmbH is a global supplier of chemical auxiliaries and specialties. Founded in Chemnitz in 1894, the company is positioned across industries with various business domains. The company's product range includes bisphenol-free retaining agents, fillers, surfactants, tanning agents, fatliquoring agents, and special auxiliaries for more environment-friendly leather production.
10. Arkema S.A.
Arkema S.A., a global supplier of binders for textiles, nonwovens, and leather, is known for blending performance, aesthetics, and sustainability. It provides polymeric dispersions and solutions for industrial leather product processing, including wet end and finishing, meeting sustainability guidelines and regulations using acrylic, acrylic-modified, and vinylic raw materials. Its flagship products are resins, including APEO and solvent-free, formaldehyde-free binders.
In a Nutshell
The leather chemicals market plays a crucial role in the leather industry, offering a wide range of chemicals used in the processing of leather. From tanning agents to dyes and finishes, these chemicals are essential for enhancing the quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal of leather products. With the growing demand for leather goods across various industries, the market for leather chemicals has witnessed significant expansion. With the constant efforts of leading companies, the industry is experiencing innovations and sustainable approaches for lean processing. As consumer needs evolve, these companies develop cutting-edge chemical products, gaining a competitive edge while reducing environmental impact.
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