Study of the application of ultrasound in a vegetable tannage

Abstract

This study concerns the implementation and improvement of a system that applies ultrasound technology to vegetable tanning floats. The system is versatile and requires no major modifications or investment expense for tanneries. In particular, the study investigated grain fineness and fixation of tannins in relation to several mechanical approaches, which included: no mechanical effect (pits), drum, ultrasound, and ultrasound plus drum. A comparative study of energy expenses on the basis of the mechanical effect being used was also carried out.