Prospects for the use of chrome-free tanning methods in the production of medical leather products

Abstract

Purpose. To conduct an analytical review of promising chrome-free tanning methods and evaluate their application potential in the production of natural leathers for medical purposes.

Methodology. A bibliometric search was performed to collect data from scientometric databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The search utilized keywords such as "chrome-free tanning," "medical leather," "prosthetic liners materials," and "wet-white technology." The analysis covered publications from the last seven years, enabling the tracking of the transition dynamics from chrome-based to chrome-free tanning systems.

Findings. Based on the systematic analysis, it is substantiated that the use of traditional chrome tanning in the production of prosthetic liners is inappropriate due to the high risk of dermatological complications and low biocompatibility. The study identifies the implementation of combined chrome-free systems based on bioinert metals (titanium, zirconium) and aldehyde compounds within the "Wet-White" concept as the most promising alternative. It is proven that this approach yields a material with high hydrothermal stability and the necessary elasticity, ensuring hypoallergenicity and long-term comfort during contact with residual limb tissues during rehabilitation.

Originality. The scientific novelty lies in the theoretical substantiation and integrated approach to selecting chrome-free tanning systems specifically for the operating conditions of rehabilitation aids. The study articulates a comprehensive set of medical and technical requirements for natural leather as a biocompatible "stump-prosthesis" interface, prioritizing not only mechanical strength but also inertness to microflora and the biochemical composition of sweat. Furthermore, the approach to assessing the safety of medical-grade leather materials is enhanced by analyzing the risks of metal ion release under cyclic loading and varying pH environments.

Practical value. The practical value of the results consists in the development of recommendations for the production of environmentally safe materials that improve the quality of life for patients with prosthetic limbs. The proposed chrome-free tanning methods enable domestic leather enterprises to diversify production and establish the manufacturing of import-substituting materials for the orthopedic industry using «wet-white» technology. The implementation of chrome-free leather in liner production will minimize cases of contact dermatitis and allergic reactions among veterans and civilians with amputations, thereby shortening the adaptation period to the prosthesis. The transition to titanium or vegetable tanning methods ensures the possibility of safe disposal of leather production waste and the products themselves after their service life, aligning with European environmental safety standards.