Determination and mapping of tear load, tensile strength and extension values on overall area of Goatskin leathers

Abstract

Leather can be defined as a protein based fibrillary network, which consists mainly from collagen. The look, length and thickness of these fiber bundles are different in various organs of the body. Thus, leather is not a uniform material from a structural perspective and the properties of a leather piece depend on the position and direction over its area. The aim of this study was to measure some physical properties of goatskin leathers such as tear load, tensile strength and extension over the whole area and to draw maps showing regional variations. For this aim, whole the surface areas of 12 goatskin leathers have been sampled. Thickness, tear load, tensile strength and extension at break values of each sample have been measured and recorded. Then maps were drawn by using MATLAB (Matrix Laboratory) software that allows matrix manipulations, plotting of functions and data. The findings showed that the tear load, tensile strength and extension properties change directionally and locational over the area of the leather. These maps will provide information for usage area of the leathers especially for cutting in footwear production.