Overview
EN ISO 17131:2020 - Leather: Identification of leather with microscopy specifies a standardized microscopy method to determine whether a material is leather and to distinguish leather from non-leather materials. Published by CEN/ISO in 2020 (superseding the 2012 edition), the standard sets out equipment, specimen preparation and examination procedures, and reporting requirements. It is intended for material identification only and is not a method for definitive species identification (for example, it does not serve to identify sheep leather as a specific species).
Key Topics and Requirements
- Scope and principle
- Identification is based on examining a cross‑section of the material and comparing its microstructure with reference images or samples.
- The method relies on experienced operators in microscopy.
- Apparatus and materials
- Light microscopes (optical, phase‑contrast or stereo) or scanning electron microscope (SEM) with at least 20× magnification (certain materials may require up to 500×).
- Cutting tools: razor blade for top‑illumination/SEM sections; cryomicrotome for bottom‑illumination or phase‑contrast sections.
- SEM accessories: coating unit (e.g., gold), specimen stubs.
- Reference materials with known designation.
- Procedure
- Cut two ~10 mm × 10 mm test pieces and produce cross‑sections perpendicular to the surface using razor or cryomicrotome.
- For SEM, mount and coat sections appropriately.
- Compare sample microstructure with normative photographic annexes (Annex A: SEM; Annex B: light microscopy; Annex C: phase‑contrast).
- If needed, measure coating and total thickness according to ISO 17186 (note: cryomicrotome samples may yield false thickness results).
- Reporting
- Test reports must reference ISO 17131:2020 and include sample origin, material designation (leather or not), method used, coating/total thickness (if measured), photographs (if requested), deviations, additional information and test date.
Applications and Users
- Who uses it
- Leather technologists, laboratory analysts, quality control and product compliance teams, forensic examiners and customs/inspection agencies.
- Practical uses
- Distinguishing genuine leather from synthetic substitutes (PVC, polyurethane, microfiber, leather-fibre boards).
- Verifying material claims for labeling, procurement and regulatory compliance.
- Supporting quality assurance in tanneries, footwear, upholstery and leather goods manufacturing.
Related Standards
- ISO 17186 - Determination of surface coating thickness (referenced for coating measurements).
- EN 15987 - Leather terminology and key definitions (provides terms used for designation).
- Developed in collaboration with IULTCS and CEN/TC 289; Annexes provide normative photographic references to aid identification.
Keywords: EN ISO 17131:2020, leather identification, microscopy, SEM, light microscope, cryomicrotome, coating thickness, ISO 17186, EN 15987.