The first thing to be clear about with fish leather is that it doesn’t smell of fish. The world of material innovation is driven by many areas, one of which is the need to look for sustainable alternatives to existing, and rapidly dwindling, materials; this impacts on consumerism, with sustainable materials moving up the value chain in terms of consumer expectations. We all need to feel more caring, but the focus on eco materials is no longer about low-value goods, such as degradable plastic bags or stationery made from recycled paper; the new ‘eco chic’ demands that high-end goods, ranging from furniture to automotive industry products, incorporate ethically sourced and rapidly renewable materials.
Strength is one of the distinguishing features of fish leather, and is due to the cross-fibre structure – which is unlike bovine leather, in which the fibres run only in one direction. This natural cross-fibre pattern makes fish leather stronger than other leathers, when compared with the same thickness. According to one supplier three 1.75cm (½ in) strips of a particular fish’s leather braided together can pull an automobile. Fish leather, as opposed to just plain fish skin, is distinguishable by curing with chemicals, known as tannins, which are added to the hide to preserve it and provide resistance to decay. The tanning process for fish leather is based on a multi-stage process, the first stage being to remove the fish oils and so eliminate the smell. This process also allows the leather to be strengthened.
Image: iPhone cover by Londine
•Comparatively high tensile strength
•Comparatively high resistance to tearing
•Water repellent
•Can provide a good grip
•Eco chic associations
•Breathable
•Characteristics are enhanced with age
•Compelling consumer story
Sources
Sourcing of fish comes from every corner of the planet, from both saltwater and freshwater.
Cost
Moderately priced.
Sustainability issues
As with bovine leather, CITES regulates the use of other leathers to ensure that species are not endangered as a result of the trade in leather from exotic animals. Obviously, fish leather should be sourced from certified sources, and fish should not be from an endangered species. None of the fish used for fish leather are on the endangered species list and, according to suppliers, are products from commercial fisheries.
Production
As with the production of bovine leather, production involves three main stages: the skinning and preparation, tanning and finishing. Fish leather can be processed in the same way as bovine leather.
Typical applications
Application areas are similar to those of bovine leather and range over everything from shoes to furniture.
Derivatives
Fish plastic.
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–Water repellent –Strong and resistant to tearing –Easily processed –Utilizes a by-product of the fishing industry |
–As with bovine leather, the tanning process of fish leather can involve harmful chemicals |