TS EN 17848

TS EN 17848 is a guide standard for quality control of chemicals used in the tanning process. Its focus is not the leather article itself, but the chemicals that influence leather manufacture, with an emphasis on products grouped into families because they produce the same effect on leather.

Where chemical quality control fits in leather processing

In general technical terms, leather processing relies on auxiliary chemicals to achieve controlled effects in tanning, fatliquoring, dyeing, and finishing. Quality control in this context helps users assess batch consistency, expected functionality, and the predictability of process outcomes. The standard’s scope is specifically a list of recommended tests that may be used to assess chemical quality; it should not be read as a product specification that sets mandatory performance limits by itself.

Why a family-based approach matters

Grouping chemicals by families means evaluating products with similar functions together rather than as isolated single items. That approach is useful in a sector where different formulations may achieve the same leather effect through different chemistries. The standard’s practical value lies in pointing users toward relevant quality-control tests; it does not, on the basis of the supplied scope alone, prescribe detailed procedures, acceptance limits, or automatic conformity conclusions.

• It applies to chemicals used in the tanning process.
• It provides a list of recommended tests.
• It groups chemicals into families according to the effect they have on leather.
• It concerns the chemicals used in leather production, not the leather itself.