Desarrollo de láminas flexibles sostenibles a partir de residuos sólidos de una curtiembre en Tungurahua

Abstract

The leather tanning industry generates large amounts of solid waste such as wet blue, a byproduct with high chromium content that represents a significant environmental risk, especially in regions such as Tungurahua, Ecuador. This work highlights the importance of seeking sustainable alternatives that allow the valorization of this waste and reduce its environmental impact, thus promoting the circular economy and the development of innovative materials from secondary sources. To achieve this objective, flexible sheets were created by combining wet blue leather waste, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and glycerol in different proportions. Following an experimental process that included washing, drying, hydrolyzing and grinding of the wet blue, mixing with the other components, molding, drying, and physicochemical and mechanical characterization under ASTM and ISO standards, in addition to FTIR analysis to verify the structural integrity of the collagen and the presence of the functional groups of each component. The results demonstrated that it is possible to manufacture sustainable flexible sheets from industrial waste. PVA is responsible for the greatest mechanical strength and homogeneity, glycerol provides flexibility, and wet blue is responsible for water absorption and ash content. However, high water absorption limits its use in humid environments, and the presence of chromium requires additional considerations for its application. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the feasibility of recovering tannery waste to obtain functional and sustainable materials, providing solutions for responsible environmental management and paving the way for future industrial applications.