Black wattle-based tannins and polyphenols have vast potential for use in various segments, from leather tanning to sectors such as adhesives, beverages, cosmetics, agriculture, metal surface treatment, effluent water treatment, among others.
Stay with us and learn more about some of these main applications, understanding how tannins can be used and how they benefit the respective sectors, becoming natural and sustainable solutions for a series of purposes.
Applications of black wattle-based tannins and polyphenols
Tannins, extracted from different plants, are part of the polyphenol group, being natural compounds that have several active functional groups, which make tannins a very versatile raw material.
Here at Seta, we extract them from black wattle, guaranteeing a natural compound of the highest quality and from a sustainable and renewable source, of great relevance for various industries. So, now that you know what polyphenols are and what tannin is, see below some of their main applications.
Leather tanning
Traditionally, tannin is widely used in the leather tanning industry, where its ability to transform skin into strong, flexible and durable leather is unparalleled.
This application is based on the ability of tannins to bind to skin proteins, providing a stable structure that is less susceptible to decomposition and shrinkage.
Stickers
Tannins are used in the manufacture of wood adhesives as effective binding agents, contributing to the production of natural glues. They are eco-friendly products, free from restricted substances and present themselves as a sustainable alternative to conventional synthetic adhesives.
Drinks
In the beverage industry, tannins and polyphenols from black wattle are used for their antioxidant and complexing power. In wine production, tannins stabilize free radicals, thus providing greater longevity to the product. In beer production, the ability to complex tannin proteins contributes to better colloidal stability of the product.
Cosmetics
Plants with a high content of tannins and polyphenols have been used for cosmetic purposes since ancient times. Following the trend of using natural inputs for the manufacture of cosmetics, tannins are re-emerging as an alternative due to their high antioxidant, antiseptic, astringent and bactericidal power. Furthermore, tannin is a product of natural origin and does not pose any health risks.
Agriculture
The search for more sustainable agricultural production alternatives has boosted the use of natural products. Tannins can be used as biostimulant additives, generating protection for plants, that is, keeping them away from pests without having to resort to chemicals that are harmful to crop development.
Metal surface treatment
When treating metal surfaces, the use of tannins based on black wattle generates excellent results. Due to their antioxidant properties, tannins are often used in the manufacture of rust converters, acting directly on iron oxide, which is the main component of rust.
Therefore, this substance can be applied to eliminate rust from different types of surfaces, creating a protective layer that facilitates the application of finishes, such as varnish and paint, as well as preventing corrosion.
Water and effluent treatment
The use of tannin-based coagulants in the treatment of water and effluents is an increasingly common practice due to their high performance, natural and environmentally friendly properties.
By precipitating proteins and other organic compounds, tannins help remove contaminants, ensuring cleaner and safer water for use.
Furthermore, the use of tannins as coagulants represents an environmentally responsible alternative to synthetic chemicals. Its biodegradable nature avoids the production of toxic waste, common when using conventional coagulants. This not only improves the quality of treated water, but also reduces the environmental impact associated with wastewater treatment.
Wondering where to find polyphenols like black wattle tannin? Count on Seta! We supply the highest quality tannins from natural and sustainable sources. Talk to us and ask your questions about this versatile product!
