Distinguishing between leather, imitation leather, polyurethane leather and cowhide requires a combination of characteristics, including touch, appearance, odor, combustion reaction and structural observation. The methods are as follows:
1.Tactile Differentiation
Genuine Leather:
The surface is smooth, soft, plump and elastic. It recovers quickly after squeezing, leaving no trace.
Top leather is thicker, while second leather is thinner but still elastic.
Imitative Leather (PU/PVC):
Imitative leather feels soft (especially polyurethane) but lacks the natural elasticity of genuine leather. Compression is slow to recover and can leave a mark.
PVC imitation leather feels hard and poor breathability.
Polyurethane leather:
Fine polyurethane leather feels similar to real leather but is slightly less elastic and may harden at low temperatures.
2.Observation of appearance and structure
Genuine Leather:
Pores and patterns:
The pores of buffalo skin are small, round and evenly distributed, the pores of yellow cowhide leather are smaller and the pores of buffalo leather are larger. The pores of the Sheepskin are flat and arranged like fish scales; the pores of the pigskin are large and arranged a shape.
a longitudinal section fiber: Genuine leather with fiber filling, imitation leather with yarn or suede.
Imitation:
The surface is patterned with fake leather embossing, but the pores are unnatural and there is a textile backing on the back.
PU:
The surface pattern is created by thermalpressing, resulting in a clear texture but lacking the natural variation of the dermis.
3. Smell and Burn Test
Smell:
Genuine leather has a natural leather odor, while imitation leather (especially PVC) has a pungent plastic odor.
Combustion Reaction:
Leather: When burned, it gives off a fluffy odor and the ash is crisp and crunchy.
Imitation (PVC/PU): When burned, it emits black smoke and a pungent odor that forms a hard, lumpy mass.
4. INTRODUCTION Features of Cowhide
Yellow Cowhide:
It has the characteristics of thin surface, fine pores, fine texture and high strength, suitable for the surface of shoe bag. Buffalo skin:
It has a rough surface, loose fibers and low strength. It's usually used on sofas and mattresses.
Yak leather:
With thick pores and thick skin, it is suitable for durable goods.
5. Quick Identification Techniques
Fingerprint Test:
Genuine leather recovers quickly and without marks after being scratched by nails, while imitation leather may leave marks or recover more slowly.
Droplet testing:
Genuine leather absorbs water and darkens, then dries back to its original color. Imitation leather is poorly absorbent and may expand or deform.
Price Reference:
Genuine leather is much more expensive than imitation leather, but be aware that low-priced "genuine leather" may be split leather or recycled leather.
