Artificial leather and synthetic leather are two common leather substitutes that have some differences in appearance, performance, and application. Below we will detail their differences from the aspects of material composition, production process, appearance characteristics, and use performance.
First, the composition of the material.
Artificial leather is a leather substitute made of natural fibers (such as cotton, linen, silk, etc.) or synthetic fibers as the base material, after chemical treatment, coating plastic layer and other processes. Its main material composition includes the substrate, finishing layer and back coating.
Synthetic leather is a leather substitute made of synthetic fibers (such as polyester, polyurethane, etc.) as the base material, and through tanning, dyeing, embossing and other processes similar to natural leather. Its material composition includes substrates, tanning preparations, dyes, coatings, etc.
Second, the production process.
The production process of artificial leather mainly includes steps such as substrate preparation, finishing and embossing. First, natural or synthetic fibers are made into a substrate, then chemically treated and coated with a plastic layer, and finally given the look and feel of leather through processes such as embossing.
The production process of synthetic leather is closer to that of natural leather, including tanning, dyeing, embossing and other steps. Its production process is relatively complex, and it needs to mimic the tanning process of natural leather, so that the synthetic fibers have the flexibility and durability similar to natural leather.
3. Appearance characteristics.
Artificial leather usually has a smoother appearance, a stronger plastic feel, and a less natural texture and pores. Due to the difference in its substrate and coating material, there are relatively many color and texture options for artificial leather, but the overall appearance is still somewhat different compared to natural leather.
The appearance of synthetic leather is closer to that of natural leather, with a more natural texture and pores, and a softer feel and texture. There are also many options for the color and texture of synthetic leather, which can meet the needs of different consumers.
Fourth, the use of performance.
The use performance of artificial leather is relatively poor, and its durability, anti-aging performance and anti-wear performance are not as good as natural leather and synthetic leather. In addition, artificial leather is also poor in breathability and moisture absorption, and is prone to moisture and deformation.
The performance of synthetic leather is relatively good, and its durability, anti-aging performance and anti-wear performance are relatively good. At the same time, the air permeability and moisture absorption of synthetic leather are also good, and it is not easy to be damp and deformed. In addition, synthetic leather also has good anti-pollution properties and is easy to clean and maintain.
Fifth, the field of application.
Due to the differences between artificial leather and synthetic leather in terms of material composition, production process, appearance characteristics and use performance, their application fields are also different.
Artificial leather is usually used to make some leather products that are not very demanding, such as footwear, bags, handbags, etc. Due to its relatively low level, it has a certain market share in some low-end markets and consumer groups.
Synthetic leather is widely used in footwear, luggage, automotive interiors, furniture and other fields. Because its appearance and performance are similar to natural leather, it is also widely used in some high-end markets and consumer groups.
To sum up, there are obvious differences between artificial leather and synthetic leather in terms of material composition, production process, appearance characteristics, performance and application fields. When choosing leather goods, consumers can choose the right leather alternative according to their needs and budget.