Catechutannic acid

Description

A natural Tannin found in Cutch, which is an extract obtained from the heartwood, leaves, pods and twigs of several trees, such as Acacia catechu or Uncaria gambier, that are native to southeast Asia and India. Cutch produces a stiff yellow Leather. The primary tannins are catechutannic acid (25-35%) and Catechin (2-10%).

Physical and Chemical Properties

Soluble in water, alcohol. Insoluble in ether.

Produces a green precipitate with iron salts.

Oxidizes to red in the presence of atmospheric acids.

Resources and Citations

• Matt Roberts, Don Etherington, Bookbinding and the Conservation of Books: a Dictionary of Descriptive Terminology, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington DC, 1982

• F. Crace-Calvert, Dyeing and Calico Printing, Palmer & Howe, London, 1876