Evaluation of Virgin Oil as Fatliquoring Agent: Impact on The Physical Properties of Tanned Rex Rabbit Fur

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of adding virgin coconut oil (VCO) at different percentages on the physical quality of tanned rabbit fur. A total of 100 fresh Rex rabbit furs were used, randomly assigned to four treatment groups (n = 25 per group), with five replicates per treatment consisting of five pooled furs each. The study used an experimental method with a completely randomized design (CRD) consisting of 4 VCO treatment percentages: V0 (control), V1 (5%), V2 (10%), and V3 (15%). The data were analyzed using ANOVA, and if there were differences, Duncan's test was used. The results showed that the addition of VCO had no significant effect (p>0.05) on tensile strength (5,033.50-13,547.40 N/cm2) and elongation (26.25-46.85%) but had a significant effect (p<0.05) on tear strength (220.29-311.62 N/cm), and a very significant difference (p<0.01) on thickness (0.50-1.35 mm), elasticity (0.49-2.00 mm), and water absorption (90.07-125.16%). In general, the use of VCO up to a percentage of 10% can increase water absorption without significantly reducing tensile strength and elongation, but it is necessary to adjust the content and combination of other oiling agents to obtain elasticity that meets the standard