Synergistic Modification of Collagen in a Chrome-Free Zirconium-Based Perovskite/MOF Nanocomposite System

Abstract The lower absorption rate and attention-grabbing pollution let traditional chrome tanning agents carry numerous potential risks in terms of sustainable modification of collagen in the leather industry. In this study, a zirconium-based halide perovskite (Cs2ZrCl6)/MOF (UiO-66) nanocomposite was designed through the in situ growth method and applied in chrome-free tanning to modify leather collagen. This composite system achieved significant synergistic effects, especially in enhancing the stability and permeation of the agent during the tanning process. It was found that the Cs2ZrCl6/UiO-66 nanocomposite allowed for the improved thermal stability and physical-mechanical properties of the leather compared with pristine Cs2ZrCl6. It noted that composite modification could preserve collagen’s characteristic triple-helical architecture, thus exhibiting excellent biodegradability. This study provides an efficient and eco-friendly chromium-free tanning agent for the leather industry and offers new insights into collagen modification.