The specialty chemical producer, BASF, has released a new drum dye. Called Luganil Black AS Liquid, the dye has been formulated for leather that has to fulfil high standards of fastness, such as automotive leather and leather for sports footwear. In addition, the dye is said to be highly resistant to migration, possess superior lightfastness compared with other metal-free dyes, and have a high perspiration resistance and wash fastness.

Luganil Black AS has also been formulated with the environment in mind, its makers say. With a very high yield, it does not have to be diluted with large quantities of water. It is also free of metals, volatile organic compounds and AOX, and organic solvents. It contains few salts and is free of MAK amines.