Pickling is a preparatory step in leather production where hides are treated with acid and salt to condition the collagen structure for tanning. Traditional pickling agents often involve strong mineral acids (like sulfuric acid) and high salt concentrations, both of which contribute to corrosive wastewater and elevated salinity in discharge streams.
In response, sustainable pickling solutions incorporate milder organic acids, buffering agents, and low-salt or salt-free systems that reduce the environmental load of tanning effluents. These agents are formulated for precise pH control, better acid penetration, and compatibility with chrome-free tanning methods, such as vegetable or synthetic tanning.
Advancements also focus on reducing total dissolved solids (TDS) and improving the biodegradability of auxiliary agents used during pickling. Tannery managers and chemical buyers rely on B2B platforms to evaluate suppliers that can provide performance-tested pickling systems aligned with LWG audit requirements and broader environmental commitments.