Tanning agents synthetic

Substances (polymer tanning agents) which are usually produced by sulphonation of aromatic basic substances such as phenol cresol, naphthalene and which have a precipitating rather than a tanning effect.

Like the natural (vegetable) tanning agents, the synthetic tanning agents combine with proteins when they come into contact with them. During this chemical process the properties of the proteins are changed. Such modified (denatured) proteins can no longer be degraded by microorganisms or only with great difficulty (antimicrobial effect). They are no longer biologically active.

Structured proteins, e.g. the collagen of the skin, retain their natural structure during the tanning process. However, they are more strongly cross-linked by the tanning agents (process used in leather production). Chromium salts are usually used as tanning agents for the tanning of leather. The pre-tanned hide is then called wet blue.

Unstructured proteins, such as the proteins of a hen's egg, are precipitated.

Synthetic tanning agents in medicine have a high acceptance. Among the synthetic medicinally used tanning agents above all Tamol has to be mentioned, a sodium salt of a low molecular phenolsulfonic acid-phenol-urea condensation product. Synthetic tanning agents are available as powders, liquids, creams and shaking mixtures in various indications (e.g. Tannosynth®, Tannolact®).

Aldehydes: The tanning effect of aldehydes is well known. Widespread examples are formaldehyde and glutardialdehyde, which are not only used for leather production but also for the fixation of histological preparations. Furthermore, aldehydes are used as (protein denaturing) disinfectants.

1. Wiedow O et al (1997) The effect of tamol on human mast cell chymase and plasmin. Skin Pharmacol 10:90-96.