Development of a process based on coagulation of polyurethane in aqueous solution for manufacturing leather-like products

Multilayer synthetic leather-like textiles are traditionally manufactured by using dimethylformamide as a diluent via polymeric polyurethane coating and coagulation processes. Unfortunately, this process has a strong environ-mental impact since it encompass a complex and polluting grinding process to separate dimethylformamide from water. Furthermore, this compound was proved harmful for both environment and textile practitioners’ health. The aim of this work is to improve the state of the art in the production of leather-like fabrics through the devel-opment of an innovative process of coagulation of polyurethane in aqueous solution to replace the current highly polluting process that involves the use of dimethylformamide. The coagulation is obtained by means of an IR thermal fixing thus resulting in a completely eco compatible manufacturing process. The obtained quality of the manufactured synthetic leather, tested according to textile standards, is comparable to the one obtained by means of conventional processes.