Xeros Technology Group said the multi-phase joint development programme between it and LANXESS Deutschland GmbH to advance the application of Xeros’ polymer bead cleaning technology in the leather processing industry is on schedule.

Phase 1 has been concluded satisfactorily and the partnership is going to enter the next phase of technical and commercial validation as planned for the second half of 2015.

The Leather business unit of specialty chemicals group LANXESS is a leading supplier of systems solutions for the leather industry. The unit is part of LANXESS’ Performance Chemicals segment, which posted sales of EUR 2.2 billion in fiscal 2014.

Xeros has developed a process, similar to its patented process already deployed in its established Commercial Laundry business, whereby the majority of water used in leather processing is replaced by Xeros’ high performance polymer beads.