Leather board, also known as salpa or leatherette or bonded leather board, is a material that is made from a combination of leather fibers and binding agents. It is commonly used as a substitute for genuine leather in various applications.
Some key points about leather board:
Composition: Leather board is typically composed of leather fibers, usually obtained from scraps and remnants of genuine leather, and binding agents. The leather fibers are combined with adhesive or resin binders to create a cohesive sheet material.
Manufacturing Process: The manufacturing process of leather board involves grinding or shredding leather scraps into fine fibers. These fibers are then mixed with binding agents, such as natural latex or synthetic resins, and compressed under heat and pressure to form sheets or rolls of leather board.
Appearance and Texture: Leather board has a similar appearance to genuine leather but may have a more uniform or consistent texture. It can be embossed or textured to mimic the grain patterns of real leather. The surface can be smooth, textured, or patterned depending on the desired aesthetic.
Versatility: Leather board is a versatile material that can be used in various applications. It can be easily cut, stitched, embossed, or shaped, allowing it to be used in different industries such as footwear, upholstery, bookbinding, packaging, crafts, and small leather goods.
Properties: Leather board shares some characteristics with genuine leather but may have different properties depending on the manufacturing process and quality. It generally has good strength, durability, and resistance to wear and tear. The texture and flexibility can vary depending on the thickness and type of binding agents used.
Cost-Effectiveness: Leather board is often considered a more affordable alternative to genuine leather. It provides a leather-like appearance and feel at a lower cost, making it a popular choice for applications where cost is a significant factor.
Sustainability: The use of leather board can be seen as a more sustainable option compared to using only genuine leather. It utilizes leather scraps that would otherwise go to waste, reducing the environmental impact of leather production. However, it is important to note that leather board is not a biodegradable material.
It's worth mentioning that the quality, durability, and characteristics of leather board can vary depending on the manufacturing process and the specific brand or supplier.