Clariant focuses on innovation at Shoes & Leather Guangzhou 2011

Muttenz, 13 May 2011 – The last six months have witnessed the launch by Clariant of an unprecedented number of new products, all specifically designed to improve the performance and productivity of the leather and footwear sectors and reduce their environmental impact. The 21st Shoes & Leather Guangzhou exhibition (June 1-3) provides the company with the opportunity to present them in detail to the leather-related companies based in southern China.

One of the most dramatic innovations has been its EasyWhite Tan, which could set a new industry standard. This technology has been developed using Clariant’s Granofin® Easy F-90 Liquid, an organic compound that is not based on chrome, phenols or aldehydes. It provides a more environmentally friendly, safer and simplified tanning process that will have major benefits for tanners supplying almost every sector, from automotive leather to footwear. It obviates the necessity to add salt during the tanning process as well as reducing the number of stages in the tanning process itself.

Clariant’s new Aqualen® topcoat systems, including Melio® 09-W-66 (dull) and Aqualen® Top GC-2033 (gloss), and Aqualen® Top IL will also attract interest. As another example of the company’s approach to improved environmental performance, Aqualen® Top IL provides an easy and effective intermediate lacquer for base coated leathers without the use of solvents.

There have also been major developments in the company’s Melio® range, including Melio® Aquabase M-90, designed to cover deep defects in leather and which makes them indiscernible after finishing. Among other developments is Melio® 06-F-88, a water-based wax that provides an excellent burnishing effect, very good polishability and a pleasant waxy touch.

Clariant will also be presenting its new Global Color Card – developed in close cooperation with MODEUROP, the Fashion Pool at DSI (Das Schuhinstitut GmbH) – as well as its leather trend booklet Fashion Up!, in preparation for Spring/Summer 2012.

Clariant’s innovations can be seen on booth 0110-0112 & 0131-0133, Complex B, China Import and Export Fair Pazhou Complex, Shoes & Leather Guangzhou 2011, Guangdong.