Reutilization of leather residue by incorporation in bricks

Abstract

Leather strips is one by-product of the footwear industry. Due to high chromium content, this leather residue can be regarded as a threat to the environment, particularly if no care is taken with its disposal. With the incorporation of this residue into ceramic products, it is possible to neutralise the chromium toxicity. In a laboratory study, the authors produced prismatic bricks using clay from the region, incorporating 1, 3 and 5 mass-% of leather residues. The bricks were tested regarding their flexure, compression and leaching. The results showed that chromium toxicity disappeared in the bricks. The mechanical tests showed a decrease in strength for the specimens with leather residue. However has bricks were lighter and more porous, it can be expected that they show better thermal insulation.