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Research & Development

Research & Development

French expertise in leather since 1973

Controlled production driven by research

ATC is one of the few European companies to innovate across the entire range of chemical specialties for leather. Since 1973, we have invested an average of 4% of our sales in Research and Development, with a clear ambition: to push back the limits of chemistry to sublimate leather while respecting the environment.

Our R&D strategy covers all stages of the leather manufacturing process:

  • River work

  • Tanning

  • Corroyage

  • Finishing

Two R&D laboratories at the cutting edge of innovation

Our innovation capabilities are underpinned by two R&D laboratories in Trévoux and Montanay (Ain, France). These sites are at the heart of our technical and scientific activity. They are home to an experienced team of specialized chemists, who play an essential role in : 

  • rigorous analysis of raw materials and finished products.

  • the development of new formulations.

  • tailor-made adaptation to customer needs and regulatory changes.

Montanay R&D laboratory at ATC headquarters

Tanorga's R&D laboratory in Trévoux

Every day, our chemists experiment, test and validate innovative solutions to improve the performance, aesthetics and durability of leather. The direct link between our laboratories and our production sites guarantees responsiveness, flexibility and total process control.

Our R&D approach is fully committed to sustainability and eco-design. Our development priorities include

  • Range of low-bisphenol products
  • Reducing sulphur and nitrogen compounds during pelannage and deliming
  • Reduces salt and acids during pickling and tanning
  • Optimizing chromium fixation to limit residues
  • Chromium-free process development
  • Creating synthetic tannins without free formaldehyde
  • Significant reduction in effluent COD and BOD values

Our technical ranges enable us to create top-of-the-range leathers that are elegant, supple and sensorial:

  • ACTIPACT: exceptional flexibility, roundness, luxurious "hand".

  • ACTYTOUCH & ACTYWAX: a variety of finishes and a unique feel

  • ACTYBIND & ACTYCOMPACT: masking defects while preserving the leather's natural appearance

Our products also improve the physical performance of leather:

  • ACTYTOP SCA: acrylic bonding resin with excellent abrasion resistance

  • ACTYTOP PU: polyurethane fasteners for high mechanical performance

  • Oil-free nourishment without volatile emissions: our 0-fogging technology based on softening polymers