2009

ASSESSING AND INVESTIGATING

SUBSTANCES USED FOR UNHAIRINGAGENT
FROM LOCALLY AVAILABLE PLANT

BAHIR DAR UNIVERSITY

Zerihun Teshome
Bahir dar university
10/2/2009

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 MODJO TANNERY S.CO
PROJECT ON: ASSESSING AND INVESTIGATING SUBSTANCES USED
FOR UNHAIRING AGENT FROM LOCALLY AVAILABLE PLANT
DEPARTEMANT OF LEATHER ENGINEERING
PREPARED BY: ZERIHUN TESHOME KEBEDE

SUB.DATE .20/10/2016
ACADEMIC ADIVISOR -Mr. SHUMET TILAHUN

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 I. Declaration
My name is Zerihun Teshome I am fourth year leather engineering student, I have undertake my
internship experience in Modjo Tannery, from a period of 10/6/ 2008 to june 15/10/2008 under
the guidance of Mr.Shumet Tilahun (Academic Supervisor) and Mr. Birhanu (company advisor).

I certify that my work is original and compiled according to the internship report writing
guideline given by the Institute-Industry Linkage office of the Institute.

As the students academic supervisor, I certify that the internship report written by the student is
his original work and compiled according to the guideline provided by the institutes UIL office
as far as my knowledge is concerned.

Shumet Tilahun
..................................... .
Name of the Academic Adivisor Signature Date

Zerihun Teshome
. .
Name of the student Signature Date

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 II. Acknowledgement
I would like to thank God for his merciful and endless guidance through my life and for giving me
a supportive and loving family and friends that are always there through all my success and failure,
supporting, cherishing and lifting me up morally and financially.

I would like to give special thanks goes to my helpful industrial adviser Mr. Birhanu. He gave me
true help for my whole works to be done smoothly and Mr. Shumat Tilaun (Academic Advisor)
He also give me the true help for my work and Ass.prof. Abiyot Gemechu My grateful thank also
goes to for all Modjo tannery s.co workers, operators, laboratory technicians, and stuff. A big
contributions and hard worked from all of them, beside this internship program make me realized
the value of working together as a team and as a new experience in working environment, which
challenges us every day.

No forget, great appreciation go to the rest of the company stuff that help me from time to time
during the internship program. The whole program really brought us together and to know the true
value of friendship and respect of each other. Least but not the last I would like to thanks my
family and friends especially those who works together as inter at Modjo.

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 III. Executive summery

The purpose of the internship is to introduce students to the actual working environment and they
will be required to submit a draft report to the university that has been approved by the company.
In addition, students are required to present the internship report. In the first part of my report, I
briefly described the back ground of my internship hosting company. Including the history and
objective of the company, its main products and services, the overall organization and work flow.

Procedures I have used while performing my tasks, are also included in this part of the report. I
tried to explain the step by step procedure.

The second part of my report briefly explains the overall internship experience I have gained
during my practical periods. I started by telling how I get into the company, in which section of
the company I have been working in and the work piece

The challenges I have faced during my internship period, both site challenges and personal
challenges are covered in this report.

The third part of my report briefly explains about the overall benefits I gained from my internship
in terms of improving my practical skills, interpersonal communication skills, team playing skills,
leadership skills, upgrading my theoretical knowledge and work ethics. Finally, I covered my
conclusions and recommendations for my company and university.

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List of figures

Figure 1.1The market structure for raw hides and skins...............................5

Figure 1.2. The management and work flow structure of Modjo tannery.8

Fig1.3 the fruit of apple of Sodom and Collection of apple of Sodom from field.31

Fig-1.4 Ripening buffalo guard fruit and collection of buffalo guard fruit from field.31

Fig-1.5 Leaves of Endod and Collection of Endod leaves plant specimen from the flied.32

Fig.1.6 Cutting of buffalo guard fruit, Sodom apple, Endod using knife crushing and grinding for
preparation of solution for unhairing substance..33

Fig. 1.7 Shows process during soaking skin with prepared solution ..34
Figure.1.8 Shows unhairing solution prepared from local plants removes the hair from skin and
unhairing agents make clean, swell up and knit the skin ..38

List of Table
Table 1.1 Breakdown of the factory building and site.........3
Table 1.2 shows as amount and place collection of unhairing plants31

Table1.3 shows as amount extraction of solution form plants34

Table 1.4 shows as soaking process method..35
Table 1.5 show as amount of chemical and cost for 1peices skin when used unhairing agent current
(NaS) available on the market36
Table 1.6 show as unhairing agents which prepared from plants and its cost for 1 pieces of skin
..38

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Table of Contents
I.Declaration ................................................................................................................................................. i
II.Acknowledgement ................................................................................................................................... ii
III.Executive summery .............................................................................................................................. iii
CHAPTER ONE ......................................................................................................................................... 1
1.Background of the company ............................................................................................................... 1
1.1.Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2.Brief History of the Company .......................................................................................................... 1
1.3.Location ......................................................................................................................................... 2
1.4.Vision of the company ...................................................................................................................... 3
1.5.Business Mission of the company .................................................................................................... 3
1.6.Market Oriented Strategic Planning .............................................................................................. 4
1.7.Main products .................................................................................................................................. 6
1.8.Companys main customers or the users of its products ............................................................. 7
1.9.Overall organizational structure of Modjo tannery share company ................................................. 7
1.10.The Management and the overall work flow ............................................................................... 8
1.11.Modjo tannery processing steps.................................................................................................... 9
1.12.Curing and storing/selection .......................................................................................................... 9
1.13.Beam house operation................................................................................................................... 10
1.13.1.Soaking .................................................................................................................................... 10
1.13.2.Liming ..................................................................................................................................... 11
1.13.3.Unhairing methods................................................................................................................. 11
1.13.4.Deliming .................................................................................................................................. 14
1.14.4. Bating ..................................................................................................................................... 15
1.13.5.Degreasing .............................................................................................................................. 16
1.13.6.Pickling.................................................................................................................................... 17
1.13.7.Tanning ................................................................................................................................... 18
1.13.8.Re tanning operation ............................................................................................................. 21
1.14.Post tanning ............................................................................................................................... 22
1.15.Finishing ..................................................................................................................................... 22
1.15.1.Chemical finishing .................................................................................................................. 22
1.15.2. Mechanical finishing ............................................................................................................. 23
CHAPTER TWO ........................................................................................................................................ 24
2.Title of project or study ......................................................................................................................... 24

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 2.1.Assessing and investigating substances used for unhairing agent from locally available
plant24
2.2.Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 24
2.3.Statement of the problem ........................................................................................................... 26
2.4.Objective of the project or study ................................................................................................... 26
2.4.1.General objective...................................................................................................................... 26
2.4.2.Specific objectives .................................................................................................................... 26
2.4.3.Scope and limitations of the study .............................................................................................. 27
2.5.Literature Review ........................................................................................................................... 27
2.6.Materials and methodology ............................................................................................................ 30
2.6.1.1.Materials ................................................................................................................................ 30
2.6.2.1.Preparation of solutions for unhairing agents form local plants. ......................................... 32
2.6.2.2.Application methods ................................................................................................................. 34
2.6.3.Data analysis and presentation ................................................................................................... 35
2.6.3.1.Cost analysis .............................................................................................................................. 36
2.7.Results and discussion .................................................................................................................... 37
2.8.Conclusion and Recommendation ................................................................................................. 39
CHAPTER THREE .................................................................................................................................... 40
3. Overall benefits gained from internship program ......................................................................... 40
3.6.Entrepreneurship skills .............................................................................................................. 40
3.7.Conclusion ................................................................................................................................... 41
3.8.Recommendation .......................................................................................................................... 41
References .................................................................................................................................................. 42

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 CHAPTER ONE
1. Background of the company
1.1. Introduction
The final internship report covers my four month activities in Modjo tannery. It involves general
experiences gained, challenges faced, problems observed and solutions made for them. Leathers
are its common products. There were different tests and day to day activities that I have observed
in this internship period. Each and every day experience of the internship program has its own
benefits and challenges to face .Generally, this internship practice enlightened me with different
theoretical and practical knowledge. Although DOFAN is one of the leading tanneries in Ethiopia,
it has some weakness. Since the tannery was planted long years ago, in the construction the
drainage system, the removal of waste materials. The tannery layout is complicated and production
rooms are crowded with new sections and machines. This results to problems such as less
productivity and high production cost.

I have obtained the permission to join the company by applying with the letter from Bahir dar
university, Institute of textile and fashion technology. Modjo tannery has about 401 employed
human powers from these, 200 are males while 101 are females. They include professionals and
workers in management, marketing, technical, medical, security services etc.

1.2. Brief History of the Company

Modjo Tannery S.C was established in 1964 by 250,000 birr and consist 230 employers that by
five shares under the name of DOFAN ETHIOPIA Which was owned by DOFAN Company
in France. The objective of DOFAN Ethiopia was to process and export crocodile skins from
Ethiopia to France. As crocodile hunting was banned by the government, the tannery moved to
processing of goat and sheep skins for export.

The tannery was nationalized in 1974 by the Socialist Government of Ethiopia and was renamed
as MODJO TANNERY managed under the control and supervision of national leather and
Shoe Corporation which was dissolved on November 10, 19992. Based on the existing
Government policy, the tannery was again privatized in 2006. Modjo tannery is now PLC. After
privatization, the tannery has grown steadily in its producing capacity and value-added products.
The company was the winner of ISO 9001:2008, Since August 2012 by Ethiopian Conformity

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Assessment Enterprise. Now a days, Modjo tannery Share Company is processing sheep skin,
goat skin and cow hide.

1.3. Location

Modjo tannery has its Head office on the 5th floor of what was once known as the leather and shoe
corporation at Metropolitan, financial and business centre of Addis Ababa National and
commercial banks, post office, rail way station of theatre hall, the Grand palace and Sheraton hotel
etc., are at a working-distance from the head office.

Modjo Tannery is located in Oromia Regional Government, Eastern Shewa Zone, Modjo town
which is 70 kilo meters east of Addis Ababa along the main road to Djibouti. It has its sales shop
and main store in the main market known as MERKATO the largest open market in Africa
about 5km from head office.

The tannery has the theoretical production capacity of 50,000sqft of various leather products per
single shift of 8 hours a day. Currently the Modjo Tannery has 401 workers of which 80% are
engaged in production and technical activities. Its technical personnel were trained /and will be
trained /on time basis for a better transfer of knowledge and for good understanding of customer
requirements.

Modjo Tannery is one of the leaders in Concern of Environmental issue by planting primary
effluent treatment; since 2011 and as well as the production of finished leather using modern
machineries and qualified, experienced and business oriented personnel. It is highly competitive
tannery which is committed to provide customers with quality product on the scheduled delivery
time. The Tannery considers the satisfaction of the customers demand with the production of
quality products suitable for international and local markets and maintains the profitability of the
company in continuous manner.

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 Table 1.1 Breakdown of the factory building and site
BUIDING AND SITE AREA COVED (sq. meter)

Production 4,246.73

Office 153.00

Store area 2,452.25

Cafeteria 371.00

Clinic 235.20

Guards office 68.40

Open area 74,093.42

1.4. Vision of the company

To be well known by export of finished product of hides and skins by quality and quantity to attract
the customers to bring added value to foreign exchange for Ethiopia. And other vision of this
company was to advertise our country Ethiopia by leather processing throughout the world.

1.5. Business Mission of the company

According to the companys general management, the business mission of the company is to
play a leading role in the domestic and export markets for tannery products. The companys
business plan is based on the principles of market oriented strategic planning, and not only
longer on production issue .The transition of Modjo tannery into a market oriented manufacture
requires ongoing training programs for all staff in the area of marketing and sales, production
logistics, quality control and assurance and general managements . Provide hide and skin products
by quality and quantity for both international or export and domestic market and also to provide
leathers as the users need.

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1.6. Market Oriented Strategic Planning

The consultant has assessed during his survey that the principle of the market oriented strategic
planning have not yet been followed by the company that consultant strongly recommends to the
companys management and general manager to do so. The marketing process consists of the
following steps:

A. Analyze marketing opportunity

B. Develop marketing strategies

C. Planning marketing program

D. Managing the marketing effort

1.7. Marketing of hides/skins as well as Marketing structure

The marketing of hides and skins starts at the producer/consumer level and passes through
achain of middle men until it reaches the Modjo tannery. The market chain for hides and skins
consist of the primary producer/consumers, who are the initial source (individual meat
consumer,rural slaughters slabs, municipal slaughters house, meat processing plants, agents of
traders collectors, regional medium/small traders regional(Addis Ababa big traders).The
individual consumers who kill in their back yard sell the hides skins either to agent collector or
directly to regional small/medium traders.After preservation air drying or wet salting the
hides/skins are passed on to big trader and then to the tanneries s the tanneries can be supplied
directly from the slaughters premise regional big traders. The tannery processes the hides/skins
received from their supplies either in the green (fresh) orfinished stages for both local and export
market

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 Municipal Meat processing
Individual producer Rural salutary
salutary house plant

Regional
small/medium
Collector traders
Agent Tanneries
s
Regional big
trades
Local market

Local market Export

Addis Ababa traders

Figure 1.1 the market structure for raw hides and skins

Quality parameter of the raw materials in the company is:

Grading measurement (first, second, third fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh (reject)
Sizing measurement
Chemicals
PH indicators
Wastage equipments (which used to remove the wastes)

The raw material comes from different areas of the country

Those places are:

Jimma
Tigrayi
Waliyata soddo
Diredaw
Assella
Hawasa
Addis Ababa

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 Butjira
Adama

The raw material purchased by the company should meet in principal the following requirement.

Size: Small, Medium, Large and Extra-large

Color: white, black, red, yellow, etc.
Grade: first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and reject
1.7. Main products

Modjo tannery processes and produces the following products:

Goat crust used for shoe upper

Sheep glove crust
Sheep natural crust
Sheep dyed limning
Sheep shoe upper
Sheep garment
Cow shoe upper
Cow lining and cow split for industrial glove

Glove: almost all of the sheep leathers are used for glove production because sheep leather is
naturally soft enough and better for glove-since they are produced only for export markets each

and every process from soaking to finishing is sensitive and requires greater care. The type of

glove produced is: silver white, through dyed glove.

Shoe upper: is the upper coverage of leather shoe produced from hide the shoe upper includes

pull up, waxy, through dyed, softy, new pull up smooth and patent leather.

Lining: is the leather used to make the internal part of shoe. It includes skin lining and hides lining.

Garment leather: are leather used to made leather jacket. In addition to these; belt lathers

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bagleathers are produced when ordered

1.8. Companys main customers or the users of its products

Main customers of its products

o Export to different countries:-

China
Italy
Indian
Germany
Spain

Domestic customers:-

Ambessa shoes
Pickok shoes company
Adama garment
Nyala
Merkato market
1.9. Overall organizational structure of Modjo tannery share company
The company has four department and four services
I/ Administration department
II/ Finance department
III/ Commercial department
IV/ Production & technical department
The four services
1. Planning & information services
2. Quality control services
3. Store and property administration services
4. Audit services

The general manager and head of the audit services are accountable to the board of director.

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 1.10. The Management and the overall work flow
Modjo tannery has its own well organized management and work flow structure. Each department
has its own role and functions. The sections and their function are briefly discussed below. The
management set General Manager at the top and the overall work flow is revealed in the following
figure below

HEAD OFFICE

GENERAL MANAGER

Finance Administrati PURCHAS

on Technical Production
E

Cost Budget

General Mechanical Civil Civil

Human department
finance department department
resource

Skin Research & Quality

Hide section
section developmen control
t

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Figure 1.2. The management and work flow structure of Modjo tannery.

1.11. Modjo tannery processing steps

Leather production passes through different process. In the tanners raw hides and skins go through
different chemicals and mechanical operations to make leather.

The tannery operations have five sections

Hide and Skin trimming room

Beam house operation
Tanning operation
Post tanning and
Finishing

1.12. Curing and storing/selection

The preparatory stage is when the hide or skin is prepared for tanning. During the preparatory stage
many of unwanted raw skin components are removed. Many options for pre-treatment of skins
exist. In Modjo tannery, wet salted preservation and air dried Goat and Sheep skins are supplied.

Curing is a process that prevents the decomposition of hides and skins from the time they are
flayed in the abattoir until the processes in the beam house begin. Whenever a raw material cannot
be processed immediately it must be cured. Popular methods of long term preservation are salting
and drying. Methods for short-term preservation (2-5 days) are cooling, using crushed ice or
refrigerated storage, and biocides. Curing is done in the abattoir, at the hide market, or at the
tannery. In certain cases it might be necessary to repeat the step in the tannery, e.g., chilled
hides can be salted for longer storage or if salting was not efficient enough.

Pre-requisite for wet end processing

Preservation, Desalting, Trimming,

The need for preservation
Preservation means protection of raw hides and skins from bacterial action
Mechanism: by removing the moisture content of the raw stock. By doing so, we are
denying favorable conditions to the bacteria
commonly used chemicals: Common salt (Easy to apply and is cheap also)

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 The need for desalting
reduces the TDS and hence protects the environment
The need for Trimming
To remove unwanted parts (like shanks and tails) of the raw hides and skins
To remove unwanted parts of limed pelt
saves the un-necessarily consumed chemicals

1.13. Beam house operation

1.13.1. Soaking
Means the immersion of hides and skins in water containing bactericide and soaking aids (enhance
soaking operation)

Purpose

To rehydrate the raw hides and skins

To remove animal dung, blood and preserving salt
To remove non-structural proteins

How to check the completion of soaking

Restoration of the natural swollen condition of the hides/skins

Good pliability in all sections of the hides/skins
Complete removal of dirt, blood and dung.

Parameters to be controlled during soaking

Temperature
Low temperature (<150C): slows down the soaking process and reduces the water
absorption of the hides/skins
High temperature (>280C): high bacterial growth, hydrolytic degradation of skin/hide
substance resulting in tinny leather quality
Time (18-20hrs, depending on the article produced)
Short soaking time: hard, tiny texture of the leather
Longer soaking time: Vein marks and Putrefaction
Rpm (usually 3)

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 Higher rpm: The grain may be crack and it also lead to looseness of the grain in the case of
dried hides or partly dried and salted hides

Float length
Short floats: insufficient distribution of chemicals
Longer floats: reduces the effect of the chemicals
Soaking defects
Minor damage due to putrefaction: observed by putrid smell, lusterless or blind sections
in the grain of the leather
Serious bacterial damage: Noticed by initial hair slip and revealed by loose grain and
reduced firmness
Heavy putrefaction: Noticed by holes, putrefaction marks on the grain and complete
loosening of the grain layer

How to avoid these soaking defects

Add bactericidal agents (sodium silico-fluoride)

Reduce the soaking temperature

1.13.2. Liming
Here, soaked hides and skins are treated with dehairing agent (sodium sulfide/sodium sulphydrate)
and lime powder

Chemicals used: sodium sulfide/sodium sulphydrate, Lime powder and liming auxiliary (to
facilitate liming operation)

Purpose
To remove hair and non-structural proteins
To open up the fibers and ease the penetration of chemicals in the subsequent operation
1.13.3. Unhairing methods
A) Hair saving

Used to recover the wool. Reduces the BOD and the solid waste. This is done by painting the skins
using a solution containing sodium sulphide/sodium sulphydrate and lime powder.

Paint solution preparation

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 Approximately 300-400ml of paint solution is prepared for one piece of skin.

Take 150g/l of sodium sulphydrate

50g/l of sodium sulphide and
260g/l of lime powder

Check the 0Be of the solution (14-150Be) _______, L/O/N

Next day add lime powder until the 0Be of the solution is 26 0Be____

Mix very well and apply on the flesh side of properly drained skins

Pile flesh to flesh for 3-4hours and remove the hair mechanically (by hand or machine)

B) Hair burning

The soaked skins are placed in to a drum containing sodium sulphide/sodium sulphydrate, lime
powder and liming auxiliary. This method saves time but affects the environment negatively by
loading the Effluent treatment plant.

Liming defects

i. Inadequate loosening of hair: This is caused due to

Short liming time
Low concentration of liming chemicals
Inadequate soaking
Immunization of hair during alkaline soak.

Effects

Short hair not removed

Rough and uneven grain surface
ii. Over liming: This is caused due to
Too long liming time
Use of high temperatures

Effects

Looseness of the leather

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 Sponginess of leathers in poor substance skins
Poor resistance of the grain
Excessive elasticity

Remedies: Use of good re-tanning process with good filling effect

iii. Lime stains/ lime blasts: This is the deposit of insoluble calcium salts on the skin or
hide. This is caused when
Skins are left for longer time in an open air
Skins are not fully covered with lime liquor
Using hard water (bicarbonate hardness)

Effects

Rough and brittle grain surface

Uneven absorption of tanning material and dyes
Dark stains in vegetable tanned leather

Remedies: Wash the pelts with pickle acids

iv. Sulphide stains: this is caused due to the presence of iron in the sulphide
Remedies: use iron free liming chemicals
v. Growth marks/wrinkled grain: This is observed by something like false backs. This is
caused by:
Uneven curing effect
Over loaded liming drums
Residue of some flesh and fat in some sections of the skin/hide
High concentration of liming chemicals
Intensive swelling at low temperatures
presence of longer hair

Remedies

Preliminary fleshing
Mild liming (addition of liming chemicals portion by portion)

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 Replace sodium sulphide with sodium hydrogen sulphide
Use higher temperature
Preliminary painting
vi. Cracked grain: This is caused due to excessive swelling or using low liming
temperatures. This can be avoided by replacing sodium sulphide with sodium hydrogen
sulphide

1.13.4. Deliming
As its name indicates this operation is aimed at removing the lime from the pelt and reduce the pH
of the pelt and make ready for pickling

Chemicals used: Ammonium sulfate/ ammonium chloride and sodium metabisulphite

Purpose: to remove the lime in the limed pelt and to adjust the pH for bating operation

Methods of deliming

A) Dry deliming (use 20-30% water and add the deliming agents)
B) Conventional deliming method (use 100-150% water and add the deliming agents)

Deliming formulation

Wash the fleshed limed pelt

Add 100-150% water@ cold
Add 1.5-2% ammonium sulphate/ammonium chloride
Add 0.5% sodium meta bisulphate ---------------run drum for 45minutes or 1hr
Check pH (8.5-9)

How to check the completion of deliming

Cut a cross-section and use drops of phenolphthalein. If the color is light pink or color less,
deliming is complete.

Defects in deliming

i. Inadequate deliming
Results in leather which is tight and too hard
ii. Damage to the grain: this is caused due to

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 The action of hot water
Addition of excessive quantities of acids

Effect

Damaged grain
Cracky grain
Reduced breaking strength

1.14.4. Bating
Chemicals used: Alkaline bates (Example Basozyme CH, Basozyme s-20 from BASF)

Purpose: To open up the structure of collagen fibers and to remove the hair root/ scud/ short hair.
The longer the bating process the softer and less wrinkled is the leather

NB: The concentration of bating enzyme and duration varies depending on the desired effect on
the final leather and the type of input raw material used.

Control parameters during bating

Temperature (30-350C)
pH (8-9)
Time (45minutes to hors based on the article produced)
Float length
Enzyme concentration(1-1.5% depending on the active matter of the enzyme employed)

Completion of bating

A) Thumb test: the impression remains for some time on the surface. This is done for cow
hides
B) Air permeability test: air permeates through the porous hair roots. This is done for sheep
and goat products

Defects in bating

i. Inadequate bating: This is caused due to

C) Short time of bating
D) Low concentration of enzyme

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 E) Unsuitable pH range for bating
F) Too low bating temperature
G) Inadequate preliminary soaking, liming and deliming

Effect

Insufficient removal of scud

Loose grain (if grain is correctly bated and inner layer is not bated)
Poor penetration of tanning agents

ii. Over bating: This is caused due to

Too long bating time
Too high enzyme concentration
Too high bating temperature
Storing raw stock for longer time

Effects

Loose grain on the leather

Spongy leathers
Papery feel
Poor strength of the final leather

Remedies: Carry out bating at low enzyme concentration, low temperature for
longer time

iii. High grain/ Goose-flesh grain: This is caused on goat skins when hot-bated pelts are
put in to cold water directly.

1.13.5. Degreasing
Here the natural fat is removed from the pelt matrix. This enhances the penetration of
chemicals in the subsequent operations
Degreaser concentration varies depending on the raw material used.
For example:

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 0.5% Boron DN for goat skins
1-1.5% Boron DN for sheep skins

Commonly used degreasers: Eusapon OC and Eusapon-OE from BASF

Defects of degreasing

i. Fatty spew: This is observed as white crystalline coating on the finished leathers mainly
on chrome tanned leathers after prolonged storage. This is caused due to the presence
high content of natural fat, especially free fatty acids.

Remedies: Proper degreasing process and contacting with heat to melt the coating. This can
also be avoided by rubbing with cloth soaked in fat solvent (petroleum or kerosene)

ii. Fat stains: formation of oily dark-colored stains mostly found on the neck and back of
sheep skins. These defects cannot be avoided once they form insoluble soap with lime
or chrome.
iii. Fat grooves: Observed by raised parallel strips running from the back to the flanks on
fine-wooled sheep skins. This is observed mainly on the neck and shoulder regions.
Remedies: Not possible if the grooves are prominent. Intensive degreasing is necessary

1.13.6. Pickling
In this operation, the de limed pelt are treated with acid solutions of formic acid and sulfuric acid
to a pH values of 2.8-3.0

Purpose
To prepare the pelt for tanning
To preserve the pelt for longer periods up to 6months
To open up the structure of collagen fiber and make softer leather such as glove
leather

Attention: Take care of acid swelling. Because this could occur when the acid mixture is added to
a liquor containing low salt concentration (<60Be).

Controls during pickling

Salt concentration (8-10%)

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 Acids concentration
Float length
Duration (1-3hrs) and 5-10 minutes using beta naphthalene sulphuric acid

Pickling operation (% based on pelt weight)

Add 80% water cold

Add 8-10%common salt .run drum for 10minutes

Check 0Be (6-7)

Add 0.5% formic Acid.15

Add 0.8% Sulphuric Acid2*10+30, Check pH (2.8-3.0 for chrome tanning) and 4.5 for
vegetable tanning

Defects in pickling

i. Too low salt content: results in irreversible acid swelling

ii. Excessive salt content: results in excess dehydration of the skin and this leads to thin
leathers
iii. Too high pH values: this leads to surface precipitation of chrome
iv. Too low pH values: quick penetration of chrome but requires larger quantities of
basifying agents

1.13.7. Tanning
Tanning is an irreversible stabilization of the hides and skins which are prone to putrefaction here,
the pickled pelts are treated with the salts of chromium, aluminium, zinc and Zirconium. In
addition, the pickled pelts are treated with vegetable extracts such as mimosa and quebracho. To
avoid surface tannage, we usually add sodium formate before the addition of chromium

Purpose: To increase the resistance of the leather against hot water (thermal resistance), chemical
(chemical resistance) and bacterial degradation.

Commonly used chemicals

Basic chromium sulphate (33% basicity, greenish color)

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 Self-basified chrome (45% basicity, pale color): contains magnesium oxide, no need to add
additional basifying agents, run for at least 6hrs
3.3.8. Basification

Treatment of the wet blue leather with alkalis such as sodium formate and sodium bicarbonate.
This helps us to fix the chrome in to the collagen fibers. Here the basicity of the chrome tannage
reaches 50-60%.

Attention

Add the basifying agents portion by portion to avoid sudden pH changes or precipitation. It is
advisable to add masking agents such as sodium formate to avoid this problem.

Why do we use masking agents?

To slows down the bonding of tanning agent and hence achieve complete penetration of
tanning material
To Prevent the flocculation of the tanning agent by alkalis
Improves exhaustion of chrome bath
The products obtained
Wet blue (from chrome tanning)- b/c the color imparted to the leather is blue
Wet white (from aluminium and zinc tanning)- b/c the color imparted to the leather
is white
Purpose of ageing: to enhance the cross linking of the tanning agent and collagen
fibers
Parameters to be controlled during tanning
Concentration of chrome or vegetable tanning agents
pH of tanning liquor
Float length
Time
Concentration of sodium bicarbonate during basification

Defects in chrome tanning

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 i. Chrome patches: This is caused when basifying agents are add too
quickly
ii. Ii. Drawn grain: This is caused due to
High pH values during tanning
High drumming speed
iii. Cracking of the grain: This is caused
When we use unmasked chrome tanning agents
Basifying to an excessive final pH value
iv. Inadequate exhaustion: This is caused due to
Too low tanning temperature
Inadequate basification
Use of excessive chrome tanning agents
Too high masking agent
Short process time

Remedies: Avoid the causes

Checking the completion of proper tannage.

Boil test method

Take small cutting (of known size) from the wet blue
Place the cutting in to hot water for 3minutes and check for size change
If there is size reduction of the cutting piece, give time for basification
Shrinkage temperature test
Take a piece of wet blue leather of known dimension
Put inside a shrinkage tester mounted with a thermometer
Record the reading in0C when the wet blue started to shrink
Wet blue leather must meet a minimum of 950C.

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 1.13.8. Re tanning operation
The post-tanning process is very essential and indispensable in leather processing. They replace
the natural agents lost in the processing operations by the artificial one the wet blue is first washed
off shaving dust and rehydrated using oxalic acid. Then re-chroming is done to uniformly complete
the tanning process using tan chrome-AB and recovery chrome again.

Operations accomplished under retanning

Neutralization

To neutralize acid
To promote combination
To accelerate the hydrolysis and combination of chrome salt in leather.
Neutralization time is decided by neutralizing system. But can vary from 30 to overnight
which means more than 12 hours.
Chemicals for neutralization:-
Neutralizing syntan naphthalene
Weak alkali salt sodium formate, acetate, sodium sulphite, sodium
thiosulphate.
Strong alkali salt sodium bicarbonate, ammonium bicarbonate

Fat liquoring

To improve the softness of the leather.

To improve the sliding properties of the leather.
To improve the toughness, water-repellent properties of the leather.
NB. All the chemicals added are finally fixed by formic acid.
The next process is:-
1. Milling reduce the moisture content from the leather.
2. Set out applied to make the skin flat, also reduce moisture, open the fibre.
3. Vacuum drying used to remove some amount of moisture and also to
increase the size of skin or hide.
4. Overhead drying used to decrease the amount of moisture by using sun light
for about 24 hours and it is done by belt conveyer.

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 5. Stacking/mollisa used to soften the dried skins or hides by overhead means.
6. Toggling is to
3. To remove minimum amount of moisture
4. Increase surface area of skin/hide and
5. To give strength and make it flat
7. Trimming to remove unwanted part for the next operation
After trimming the product is said to be crust. The crust is counted and
exported as customers requirement. Or
After trimming it passes to the next operation finishing.

1.14. Post tanning

1.14.1. Splitting
Splitting is done by splitting machine and it is used to obtain the resultant leather with
required thickness.
1.14.2. Shaving
To obtain the resultant leather with uniform thickness

1.15. Finishing
The term finishing is used in tannery to describe a series of process and operations which
improve the properties and attractive materials. It is the final chemicals and mechanical treatments
of leather before manufacturing of end products. As they are naturally different, finishing of
leathers before manufacturing of ends products. As they are naturally different, finishing of
leathers from Hide and that from skin are undergone the same finishing operation.

The main purpose of finishing is to give a treatment of the grain surface to protect it against a dirt,
staining, wetting, mechanical stresses like rubbing, scuffing, flexing, etc. To improve the quality
of crust by covering the defects of crust surface; to give the crust surface the desired colour; to
give crust surface the fashionable effects.

1.15.1. Chemical finishing

Chemical finishing is mostly related to colours and their fastness to environmental effects. The
tannery uses three types finishing: fully aniline, semi-aniline and pigment finishing for skin and
only the last two for hide the season is prepared in proportion developed by research and

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development. The base coat and the middle coat are applied by roller cotter while the top coat is
by auto sprayer.
1.15.2. Mechanical finishing
Mechanical finishing is improving appearance of leather using different finishing machines. The
common mechanical finishing includes: rolling, buffing, milling, and polishing.
Grading: - sorting the leathers into packs according to surface quality, thickness and grades.
Major defects-Ekek, Hole due to putrification, pox, Poor grain pattern ,wound
marks, deep knife cut and process defects.
Minor defects-Scratch, Blood stains, Gouge marks, Wrinkles, pinholes, Vein marks
and process defects.
Rolling: - This is done by means of rolling machine with high pressurized rolling cylinder. This
operation has the purpose of giving the leather a high density of fibers by treatment under high
pressure.
Milling:- is softening of the conditioned by moving them in a rotating drum at about 12-16rpm.
Besides softening effect, a especial grain making is achieved. Milling is mainly used for soft
upholstery garment and rustic upper leathers.
Buffing:- is affecting of leather surface by action of abrasive paper. It has the following
functions;
Cleaning the flesh side from irregular fibers and residues of connective tissue in order to create
uniform pressure condition for mechanical finishing process and to give the leather attractive
appearance or sale. Fine buffing of grain correction or for production of corrected grain side
leather. After finishing the leather is selected based on their quality and giving grade for it. Next
the crust is counted and packed

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 CHAPTER TWO

2. Title of project or study

2.1. Assessing and investigating substances used for unhairing agent from
locally available plant.
2.2. Introduction
Ethiopia possesses one of the world largest livestock populations: eighth for cattle, twelfth for
sheep and lambs, and eighth for goats (FAO, 2001). Ethiopia's economy is predominantly
agricultural, where the livestock sub-sector plays substantial role.

In Ethiopia hides and skins contribute much to the export earnings from the livestock sector. In
addition, it has a large contribution to the leather industry in the country. Livestock hide and skin
contribute significant proportion of domestic leather. According Girma (2003) reported that,
Ethiopia has been exporting hides and skins in the past 100 years. The country has big potential to
develop the sub-sector. In 2002, hides and skins represent major source of foreign exchange
earnings for the country accounting for 14-16% of the total export revenue

Hides and skins are the basic raw materials for the leather industry. Currently there are about 27
tanneries in the country and have an average capacity of 4,000 pieces of hides and 30,000 pieces
of skins per day (EEA, 2007/08). However, they are working under capacity even if the country
has a potential to supply around 20 million pieces of hides and skins per annum. The potential
supply of hide and skins depend on the scale of meat production, not on the size of livestock
population

The leather industry processes raw hides and skins and produces semi-processed and finished
leather for both export and local consumption. The industries are also sources of employment. This
is why the sector needs great attention by the government and all concerned stakeholders. [2] (1-
14pp)

Considering the development potential and economic importance of hides and skins, in the last
few years, the government of Ethiopia has launched different development programs aimed to
increase the supply and improve the quality of the raw material.

Because of this development interventions, hides, skins and the leather industry are still
constrained by and production of the poor quality of raw materials, lack of an efficient market

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structure, a weak extension service, competition from local/rural tanning industries and a lack of
price incentive for production of good quality raw material (Ahmed, 2001). In addition to this,
leather industry has a problem of waste treatments cost of chemicals used for leather processing.

Tanning is the process of treating skins and hides of animals to produce leather, which is more
durable and less susceptible to decomposition. A tannery is the term for a place where the skins
are processed. Tanning is a process of skin and hide into leather involves a process which
permanently alters the protein structure of skin. Tanning can be performed with either vegetable
or mineral methods. Before tanning, the skins are unhaired, degreased, desalted and soaked in
water over a period of 6 hours to 2 days.

The weakening of hair is dependent on the breakdown of the disulfide link of the amino acid
cysteine, which is the characteristic of the keratin class of proteins that gives strength to hair
and wools (keratin typically makes up 90% of the dry weight of hair). The hydrogen atoms
supplied by the sharpening agent weaken the cystine molecular link whereby the covalent disulfide
bond links are ultimately ruptured, weakening the keratin. To some extent, sharpening also
contributes to unhairing, as it tends to break down the hair proteins

Unhairing agents used at this time include sodium sulfide, sodium hydroxide, sodium
hydrosulfite, calcium hydrosulfide, dimethyl amine, and sodium sulfhydrate. The majority of hair
is then removed mechanically, initially with a machine and then by hand using a dull knife, a
process known as scudding

Chemical used for unhairing agents cause environmental pollution when released from leather
industry without treatment. The cost and waste treatment of chemical for unhairing process of
hide and skin requires further save and economical feasible technological improvement
Therefore, research studies are needed on the basis of eco-friendly sustainable processing and
production and hide and skin for Quality management strategies to foster sustainable development
is important .

This research work aimed to investigate and assess unhairing substance from locally available
plant sources to alleviate pollution problem, waste treatment cost of leather industry because of
sulfur containing chemical utilization for unhairing purpose. Furthermore, this scientific study
aims to discover unhairing substance from local plant sources and determine the potential for

25 | Page ZERIHUN TESHOME BAHIR DAR UNIVERSITY 2009 E.C

replacing chemical used for unhairing Purpose with environmentally friendly products to make
eco-friendly leather.

2.3. Statement of the problem

Chemicals used for unhairing agents (sodium sulfide, sodium hydroxide, sodium hydrosulfite,
calcium hydrosulfide, dimethyl amine, and sodium sulfhydrate) cause pollutions problem when it
is released into environment without treatment. Thus, leather industry incurs cost for treatment
of waste during unhairing or leather processing. In addition this, unhairing chemicals are imported
from outsides, this affect national income of our country. Therefore, this project or study is aimed
in assessing and investigating substances used for unhairing agents for local plant sources and
assessment of its potential for replacing unhairing chemicals very useful to get rid of the treatment
cost of sulphides during unhairing process to foster environment friendly economy for mitigation
of pollution problem on environment in leather industry while processing of leather.

2.4. Objective of the project or study

2.4.1. General objective
To investigate substances used for unhairing agent from local plant sources, such as Endod,
Sodom apple and buffalo gourd species by preparing solution from their fruits in trying and
applying on skin.

2.4.2. Specific objectives

To investigate and identify plant species used for unhairing purpose.
To discover and prepare solution used for unhairing purpose from fruit local
plants by trying and applying on skin.
To assesses the potential of the solution prepared from fruit of locally available
plants in replacing the unhairing chemical used in leather industry
To assess the effectiveness of solution prepared from locally available plant
sources.
To compare the cost and benefit analysis of solution prepared from locally
available plant sources with chemicals used for unhairing agent for economic
feasibility.

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 2.4.3. Scope and limitations of the study

In many civilizations around the world, animal leather was processed and used for various
purposes since time immemorial. Nowadays increase of utilitarian value; social changes and
population growth of the country possess the need for the additional demand for leather product.
However, the processing of hide and skin for mass production of leather products cause
environmental pollution due to waste discharge to their surroundings . Therefore, the struggling
for environmental friendly hide and skin processing is the key issue for sustainable production and
sustainable development (Figveria (1999). Gustavson.1997).

Taken this in to consideration this mini apparent project or study is to assesses and investigate
substances prepared from locally available plant sources used for unhairing agent of leather is very
important for replacing unhairing chemical so that it mitigates the environmental pollution caused
by leather tannery. In addition to this, it reduces or solves treatment and imported cost of the
chemicals used in leather industry in our country, provided that further scientific study will be
carried out at large scale. Therefore, this study shows environmentally and economical feasible
potential of substance used for unhairing purpose from local source to foster environmentally and
economical sound sustainable development in leather industries. However, this study has the
following limitations.

Lack of standard scientific instrument done so far regarding this work.

Lack of written document, Lack of expertise and guidelines that initiate such scientific work
regarding in leather industry sectors

Shortage of internet accesses.

2.5. Literature Review

In Ethiopia there are different species of plants are available those plants are used for different
purposes, many plant species locally used for unhairing agent Endod (Phytolacca dodecandra)
Sodom apple (Solanum incanum) and bottle gourd (Cucurbita foetidissima ) are among the few.

Endod (Phytolacca dodecandra) is plant species belongs to family phytolaccaceae. Phytolacca

dodecandra is a relatively common plant throughout Ethiopia, especially in the semi-highland
regions.

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The root is used in the treatment of excessive pelegra (kuruba). The decoction of the root (1 in.
long) is used in the treatment of gonorrhea. There is also a wide application made of the root to
cause abortion. The dosage must necessarily be regulated to avoid death of the woman. It is
believed the male plant (cut in mid-October) effectively serves in the treatment of many internal
diseases. Phytolacca dodecandra is harvested, dried, and ground fruit makes a good detergent as
it probably contains saponins.
Drying is necessary, however, for prolonged storage for use during the course of the year. The
plant is also reported to be used by farmers to treat their domestic animals during birth troubles,
The plant (extract) is sometimes added to local drinks such as Tej to produce a stronger drink. This
practice must be considered risky. The plant is generally toxic to stock. [12](Page 41- 43)
This plant may in general, have a potential application in biological control. Recent investigations
by the Pathobiology Institute, Addis Ababa University, have indicated its potential use in the
control of schestosomiases (bilharzia) by destroying the snail (Lemma, 1971).
Another plant used for unhairing agent is Apple of Sodom has scientific name Solanum incanum.
Solanum incanum is plant species belongs to family solanaceae which has 2000 different species
of which 100 species found in tropical Africa. It is shrubby herb up to 4 ft. high, widely spread
throughout the Ethiopia. It has different vernacular name in different ethnic language of Ethiopia
for instance, Embay in Amharic and Hiddi in Afan Oromo Generally it is very common plant
in over grazed range areas or road- sides. The globose fruits are bright orange in color and children
are thus tempted to eat them. The fruit of apple of Sodom is poisonous. The water soluble extract
consist of 60-90% solamargine and solasonnine being studied as component in pharmaceutical
composition for inhibits tumor growth in leaver, breast and lung cancer. The yellow ripe fruit
boiled and used as soap substitute in cloth washing. Fruit of apple of Sodom is toxic when eaten
by livestock. The fruits are also used to treat gonorrhea and in leather tannery by mixing with urine
in Ethiopia local skin processor (Amare Getahun 1976).

Buffalo gourd plant species belongs to Curcubitiacea family with scientific name Cucurbita
foetidissima. People have applied a variety of common names to them including, Missouri gourd,
Buffalo Gourd, Calabazilla, Wild Gourd, coyote ear, and Wild Pumpkin. From personal
observation, Buffalo gourd is widespread in open disturbed areas in roadsides and in dry or sandy
areas in Arsi zone, Oromia National Regional state. It has a local name Buqe sexanna in Afan

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Oromo. It is a perennial plant that grows from a large tuberous root. It produces very long stems
that trail along the ground for several yards, along which small, round gourds form.

The geographical range of Buffalo Gourds extends to southwestward from the north-central United
States into much of the southwestern United States and southward into central Mexico. The roots,
stems, and leaves of buffalo guard were used for a variety of medicinal needs (Dodson, 2012;
NAE. 2013).

The large, roughly triangular leaves of this plant are coarse, almost leathery, and emit what many
consider an offensive odor when brushed against. Both the root and the fruit/seed of the buffalo
gourd were utilized by indigenous North Americans. They valued the root for its medicinal
properties, and the seeds as a food source. The fruit and roots contain cucurbitacins, a group of
triterpenoid glycosides that imparts a very bitter taste, and that can be poisonous in high
concentrations. The buffalo gourd, is rich in cucurbitacin and consumption of this plant requires
some processing. Although there are accounts of other parts being consumed, most references
mention only the seeds as a food source. The shell of the gourd, the leaves and stems, and the root
had other applications. For instance, the root and gourds used as soap and bleach. Rubbing of the
dried fruit onto stains on hides and clothes before washing is effective to remove dirty (USDA.
2013; NAE. 2013.)

The foul-tasting mature fruit is poisonous to humans if eaten. Sensitivity to a toxin varies with a
persons age, weight, physical condition, and individual susceptibility. Children are most
vulnerable because of their curiosity and small size. Toxicity can vary in a plant according to
season, the plants different parts, and its stage of growth; and plants can absorb toxic substances,
such as herbicides, pesticides, and pollutants from the water, air, and soil [5]( page-465-466)

Tanneries are often associated with the characteristic and obnoxious "sulfide smell", which is in
fact caused by low concentrations of sulfhydric gas, also known as hydrogen sulfide. Levels as
low as 0.2 ppm of H2S are already unpleasant for humans and a concentration of 20 ppm is
unbearable. .As beam house and tanning are often done in the same facility, smell is actually the
lesser problem. Through human errors, this always holds the danger of mixing acidic floats with
the sulfide containing beam house float and releasing higher amounts of H2S. At a level of 500

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 ppm all olfactory receptors are blocked and the gas, therefore, becomes unnoticeable and an
exposure for 30 min results in a life threatening intoxication. At a concentration of 5,000 ppm
(0.5%), the toxicity is so pronounced that a single breath is enough to cause immediate death within
seconds.
Despite all these problems and risks, sulphide has been the preferred chemical for unhairing for
more than a century. This can be attributed to unavailable workable alternatives: the use of organic
sulphides has shown to be practicable but not really accepted due to the extra costs involved.
Unhairing solely by proteolytic and keratolytic enzymes has been tried over and over again but for
the lack of selectiveness was difficult in practice to control. 14 [Page-235-237]

2.6. Materials and methodology

2.6.1. Methodology
2.6.1.1.Materials
The materials used in this scientific study are knife, plastic bags, lime mortar Sodom apple fruits,
Endod leaves, buffalo guard fruits. Drum, wetting agents, buzume-1418, sod-ash, litmus paper,
biome meter, glove, camera, bucket and stick.

2.6.1.2 Data collection

Using the previous knowledge (diary) and personal observation plant species used for unhairing
agent collected from available areas. Many of locally available plants used for unhairing purpose
in this study Endod (Phytolacca dodecandra) apple of Sodom (Solanum incanum) and Buffalo
gourd (Cucurbita foetidissima) are considered in this study.

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Table 1.2 shows as amount and place collection of unhairing plants
Plant species Amount of collected Area of collect plant Days for collection
Sodom apple fruit 0.5kg Oromia, Arsi, Bekoji 1day
Buffalo guard fruit 0.75kg Oromia, Arsi, Bekoji 1day
Endo leaves 0.5kg Oromia, Arsi, Bekoji 1day

Fig 1.3 the fruit of apple of Sodom (A) and Collection of apple of Sodom from field (B)

Fig-1.4 Ripening buffalo guard fruit and collection of buffalo guard fruit from field (D)

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Fig-1.5 Leaves of Endod and Collection of Endod leaves plant specimen from the flied. (F)

2.6.2. Method

2.6.2.1. Preparation of solutions for unhairing agents form local plants.

After collection of plants from locally available area, solution for unhairing prepared from the
leaves Endod and fruit of Buffalo gourd and apple of Sodom by squeezing and crashing with using
knifes and properly mixed by adding lime in the following procedures.
1. Collection of plant source materials, fruit of apple of Sodom, fruit of buffalo gourd and leaf of
Endod.
2. Cutting with knife and Crushing and grinding using mortar
3. Prepare approximately 300-400ml a solution for one pieces of skin by taking of 150g/l of
Solanum incanum fruit solution, 50g/l of Phytolacca dodecandra leaves solution and 150g/l
Buffalo gourd fruit solution.
4. Mixing of solution appropriately by adding 260g/l of lime powder
5. Measuring the amount of solution and keeping in container
6. Checking Biome of solution is between 10-12
7. Keep the solution for 24hr
8. Apply the solution the on the flesh side of the skin
9. Fold the skin flesh side to flesh side
10. Keep the skin for at least 3-4 hour
11. Remove the hair form the skin by using mechanical action.

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Fig.1.6 Cutting of buffalo guard fruit, Sodom apple, Endod using knife crushing and grinding for
preparation of solution for unhairing substance.

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 2.6.2.2. Application methods
First washed skin by using rehydration method that is process called soaking.
Table 1.3 shows as soaking process method.

weight % Weight kg/l Chemical Temp. Time Control

used run PH
remark
300 3 Water Room 10 Be =0
pre- 300 3 Water Room 10 Be =0
soaking 300 3 Water Room 10 Be =0

300 3 Water Room 30 PH =8-

Main- 0.5 0.05 Wetting Room 9
soaking agent I/O/N
1 1 Soda-ash room 5

0.5 0.05 Buzum-1418 room run/hr

Fig. 1.7 Shows process during soaking skin with prepared solution

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 Secondly bring the solution of unhairing agent which prepared from Solanium linnaencem,
Phytolacca dodecandara, Cucurbita foetidissima plants and after we check beume of the solution
we applied the solution on the skin by flesh side.
2.6.2. Plant identification methods
The scientific name of plant species used for unhairing agent of skin collected from locally available
area is identified by using field guide book, by involving the expertise in the field of botany from
Dilla and Addis Ababa university biology department and using book on Flora of Ethiopia and
Eretria volume (I- VII) (By Sebseba Demissew and Enseramu Kelebessa)

2.6.3. Data analysis and presentation

There are different kinds of species Solanum incanum, Cucurbita foetidissima and Phytolacca
dodecandra are found in Ethiopia. Those all plants are grown the same season but the productivity of this
plants increases and decrease according to fertility of the land which on grow and environment condition.
According my observation we got 12-15kg of Solanum incanum fruits, 100-200kg of Cucurbita
foetidissima fruits, 80-100kgof Phytolacca dodecandra leaves from one plants.

From the plants Solanum incanum fruits, Cucurbita foetidissima fruits and Phytolacca dodecandra
we can obtain the following products.
Table1.4 shows as amount extraction of solution form plants.
Plant species Amount of Main product of Waste extract from
plant taken per kg solution extract from plants.
plants.
Solanum incanum 0.5kg 0.25kg 0.25kg
Cucurbita 0.4kg 0.1kg
foetidissima 0.5kg
Phytolacca 0.75kg 0.5kg 0.25kg
dodecandra

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 2.6.3.1. Cost analysis

Solution prepared from the fruits of Solanum incanum, Cucurbita foetidissima and leaves of
Phytolacca dodecandra for unhairing agent eco-friendly product do not cause pollution thus dont
need treatment plant. Therefore, it has a potential to solve pollution problem of leather industries
and avoid treatment cost in addition to this the cost of unhairing agent such as sodium sulphide
,sodium hydrosulphide which currently available on the market is very high when compare it
within the solution which prepared from Solanum incanum, Cucurbita foetidissima and leaves of
Phytolacca dodecandra.

Let compare each with the costs.

1kg Nas = 21.45 birr 1kg solanium linnaencem=1birr

1kgNaHs =23.27 birr 1kg phytolacca dode Candara=1birr
1kgNaHs =23.27 birr 1kg Lagenaria vulgaris =1birr
1Kg lime =3.30 birr

Table 1.5 show as amount of chemical and cost for 1peices skin when used unhairing agent current
(NaS) available on the market.
No Name of chemical Amount chemical used Cost/birr
kg/l
1 sodium sulphide 0.05kg/l 1.075birr
2 sodium sulphydrate 0.15kg/l 3.5175birr
3 lime powder 0.26kg/l 0.8586birr
4 Total 0.46kg/l 5.4636birr

But unhairing agents which prepared from local plants is free from environmental pollution and
low costs.

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Table 1.6 show as unhairing agents which prepared from plants and its cost for 1 pieces of skin
No Name of chemical Amount chemical used kg/l Cost/birr
1 Solanium linnaencem 0.5kg/l 0.05birr
2 Phytolac cadode Candara 0.45kg/l 0.45birr
3 Lagenaria vulgaris 0.5kg/l 0.5birr
5 Lime powder 0.26kg/l 0.8586birr
5 Total 1.71kg/l 2.308birr

The difference cost between local unhairing agents between unhairing agents currently available
on market for one skin is calculated in the following from.
Unhairing agents currently available on market -local unhairing agents which prepared from local
plants.
5.4505birr-2.308birr
3.1425birr difference
So we can save 9,427.5 birr during one process. That means 1 drum contain 3000skin
3000skin x 3.1425birr
9,427.5birr
Our country has a potential to supply around 20 million pieces of hides and skins per annum. So
we can save 3.1425x20000000=62,850,000 birr

2.7. Results and discussion

The solution prepared from local plant namely the fruits of Solanum incanum, Cucurbita
foetidissima and leaves of Phytolacca dodecandra with added lime powder is effectively removes
hair from skin. In addition to removing hair it also makes the leather knit clean and bloating much
less obnoxious smells, substantially reduced load on the environment - sulphide, nitrogen, carbon
oxygen demand, sludge, optimized and more consistent yield in lay-out, cutting and leather quality,

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lower chemical, process and waste costs this is mostly likely due to the presence of detergent
agents in the solution prepared in this way. This go in line with other studies that, particularly
Phytolacca dodecandra fruits of Solanum incanum detergent agents namely sapoins. Therefore,
this clearly shows that the solution prepared has a potentials to replace detergents used in liming
process in leather industry provided that further scientific research will be carried outs.

A B
Figure.1.8 Shows unhairing solution prepared from local plants removes the hair from skin (A)

And unhairing agents make clean, swell up and knit the skin (B)

Unhairing chemicals currently used in leather industry such as sodium sulphydrate and sodium
sulphide are expensive, and they caused pollution problem when released to environment since
they are sulfur containing compounds. Each leather industry should treat the waste and the
treatment cost is very high. Solution prepared from the fruits of Solanum incanum, Cucurbita
foetidissima and leaves of Phytolacca dodecandra for unhairing agent eco-friendly product do not
cause pollution thus dont need treatment plant. Therefore, it has a potential to solve pollution
problem of leather industries and avoid treatment cost. In addition to this it is very cheap compared
to chemicals for unhairing agents since the plants are available. According to this scientific work,
300-400ml solution of Solanum incanum, Cucurbita foetidissima and leaves of Phytolacca
dodecandra is enough to remove hair for one skin which cost approximately only 1-2 ET. Birr

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whereas one skin need 150 g/l sodium sulphdyate, 50 g/l, sodium sulphate and 260g/l lime for
unhairing purpose which cost 5-6 Et birr( 1kg NaS Cost 21.50 birr, 1kgNaHS Cost 23.25 birr
This clearly shows solution prepared from unhairing purpose mode from locally available plant
source is economical feasible. Therefore, preparation of unhairing agents from plants Solanum
incanum, Cucurbita foetidissima,Phytolacca dodecandra is effective in term of economic and
environmental point of view.

2.8. Conclusion and Recommendation

The solution prepared from local available plant sources is effective in removing hair form skin
and hide. Therefore, the fruits of Solanum incanum, Cucurbita foetidissima and leaves of
Phytolacca dodecandra has potential in source for looking solution for unhairing agents of skin
and leather to replacing chemicals used for unhairing agents by eco- friendly product to get rid of
treatment cost and pollution problem caused by sulfur containing compound. The solution
prepared form local plants for unhairing agent is economical and environmental feasible. This is
the key for realization of our country climate resilient green economy for sustainable production
and sustainable development in leather industry

Based on this mini scientific work the following points are recommended:

Since Research in the hides and skins sector is weak in Ethiopia. Our university Research
programs need to be formulated, rationalized and prioritized with stakeholders participation
to ensure our the countrys strategic research interests in the hides and skins industry are
addressed
Further scientific studies and experiments are needed to determine the chemical composition
of the plants to extract eco -friendly compound used for unhairing purpose that is scientifically
sound
Integration of indigenous knowledge into the development of improved technologies for hides
and skins is important

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 CHAPTER THREE

3. Overall benefits gained from internship program

The four months internship practice was very good in terms of developing strength of real time
engineering problem solving and gaining working knowledge. It also guides me to decide my
future job in which ways and companies. Here I list all benefits which I got from my four months
internship work. These are listed as follows:-

Practical skills
Theoretical knowledge
Interpersonal skill
Team playing skill
Leadership skill
Work ethics

3.6. Entrepreneurship skills

Practical skills. I observed practically what I have learned theoretically in the previous years. I also
visualized the real industrial process and machineries involved in leather processing.

Theoretical knowledge .The benefit of the internship program in terms of theoretical knowledge
development is immense. I have been thought so many things beyond the course I taken during
my Four year leather engineering study program. And also use the courses in practical skill of my
work tasks.

Interpersonal communication. The industrial communities are individual of different ethnic

groups, professions, educational level, religions, nations and nationalities, etc. individuals from
such different back grounds have different behaviors of their own, I have learned how to
accommodate such differences and communicating with the community

Team playing skills I developed group working with company workers and with students from
other universities. Even though there is no team task given for me, my project mate was one of the
way which teach me how to cooperate and work together to solve problems in cost and time
effective way. In the research and development teams meeting I see how staffs:

Interact for better solution of problems

Suggest each other to fulfill a given task

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 Concentrate on easy and fast way of solving procedure

Leadership skills .It is inefficient difficult to manage peoples by rigid rules and regulations. I
understood that is better to initiate lead, motivate and inspire workers instead of monitoring and
regulating them.
Work Ethics .I have to obey the machines working instruction, working time and the like. It is also
expected from us to sacrifice our time and knowledge to solve problem when it occurred.
Entrepreneurship skills .I have motivated to generate idea of producing useful things from tannery
wastes, for instance, production of glue and generating of biogas plant from lime splitting and
fleshing wastes; production of leather board and fertilizer from shaving dust and trimmings.
3.7. Conclusion
The internship helps not only me, but also the workers in the industry like the Formans, the daily
labors and all in general. While I have there the workers went to know some theoretical skills that

I learned from university. They were asking me in detail and I answer them with great pleasure
while they shared me their practical skills many leather making chemicals are very dangerous to
health problem; even death, so not only in Modjo tannery but also in every industry, safety methods
should not be allowed to worker without full safety equipment in working places it important to
know the technical industry instruction and languages, because with the employers in the project
so I want to give my greatest appreciation to both the skilled and unskilled workers who
participated in this leather industry.

Permanganate is used to complement the aeration process that is normally part of the facility
wastewater pretreatment process. Application point depends on the type of wastewater treatment
system and other complementary chemical technologies that are being employed.

3.8. Recommendation
Modjo tannery does it best in providing the market with high quality leather, through the way of
working is tough since most of the machines are not computerized. The workers have to wait for
each process. Instead if it was computerize in the drum can be added in definite amount. The helps
in economizing the water supply. In addition to this here are many things that have to be taken
under consideration. This includes: Steam from some machines is simply released to air. I
recommended that, it can be used for heating water for boilers or can be recycled by condensation.
This economizes the power consumption for steam generation.

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 Shaving dusts and trimming are simply dumped as waste materials; however they can be
used as a raw material for production of fertilizer and leather bored.
Store house has to be separated for hide and skins and should be cleaned periodically.
Tannery floors have to be cleaned before and after draining and discharging of processed
leather. This avoids contamination and slippery chemicals affect to the workers.
The tannery layout, by changing the existing tannery layout they can create Favorable
condition for workers and working machines.

The west treatment of Modjo tannery is used primary treatment but it cannot works
functionally; they must Appling secondary and tertiary treatment for more pure effluent.

References
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