Abstract

This study investigates the physico-mechanical properties of Sokoto Red Goat skins using x-irradiation as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional salt-curing preservation. The objective is to render flayed skins resistant to putrefaction while maintaining standard physico-mechanical characteristics. Results indicate promising outcomes for x-irradiation treatment. Tensile strength ranged from 5.982 N/mm² to 23.570 N/mm² at 450 Gy and 200 Gy, resistance to compression varied from 1.54 kg/cm² to 4.29 kg/cm² at 150 Gy and 100 Gy, indentation index fluctuated from 0.27 mm to 0.81 mm at 400 Gy and 200 Gy, shrinkage temperature spanned from 60°C to 75°C at 50 Gy and 200 Gy, apparent density showed values between 0.438 g/cm³ and 0.667 g/cm³ at 350 Gy and 150 Gy. Percentage elongation ranged from 16.63% to 56.71% at 300 Gy and 350 Gy. In contrast, salt-cured samples exhibited values of 23.963 N/mm², 4.50 kg/cm², 0.23 mm, 72°C, 0.515 g/cm³, and 50.21% for tensile strength, resistance to compression, indentation index, shrinkage temperature, apparent density, and percentage elongation, respectively. The x-irradiation results align with recommended standards, showcasing its efficacy in preserving animal skins while virtually eliminating the environmental pollution associated with traditional salt-curing methods.