Revolutionary degreaser from BASF

During a press conference in Ludwigshafen, BASF Performance Chemicals for Leather presented Eusapon OD, a groundbreaking new universal and high-performance degreasing agent for leather and woolskins. It can be applied at all stages of production for soaking, liming, deliming and degreasing.The product sets a new standard in providing a unique bundle of outstanding properties to add value for tanners and benefit the environment. Current methods of degreasing tend to involve the use of nonylphenols and their ethoxylates or solvents. However, German chemicals associations agreed that nonyl-phenol-based surfactants should be phased out and alternatives must therefore be developed. It is as a result of this that BASF have developed their latest surfactant Eusapon OD. Eusapon OD provides the best degreasing effect; good soaking; extremely small quantities required; low foaming; easy dilution; high emulsion stability at any pH; even and bright dyeing performance; and enhanced waterproofing. Benefits for the environment are that it is readily biodegradable; very environmentally friendly due to low dosage and that it also fulfills all relevant environmental EU directives. At the start of the conference Dr Wolfgang Büchele, president of the operating division Performance Chemicals, pointed out: 'We do our utmost to offer customers better and more intelligent solutions to their problems than competitors do at an acceptable price. We are working alongside them as partners to improve economic efficiency, and making the products of our customers' customers even better and more innovative.' Dr Michael Hepp, head of the global business unit Performance Chemicals for Leather, stressed the various efforts of BASF to stand firm and prosper in the leather industry despite difficult market conditions.