The International Union of Leather Technologists and Chemists Societies (IULTCS) has confirmed that Dietrich Tegtmeyer will present the prestigious Heidemann Lecture at the XXXVIII IULTCS Congress in Lyon, France from September 8 to 11, 2025.

Tegtmeyer, a well-known consultant and former Global Head of Business Development and Industry Relations at TFL, said his talk will focus on exploring collagen beyond its use in leather.

The Heidemann Lecture is the keynote of every IULTCS Congress, held in memory of Professor Dr Eckhardt Heidemann (1925–1999). Professor Heidemann made groundbreaking contributions to leather chemistry and was deeply committed to studying the collagen molecule, which remains the foundation of leather science.

Born in 1925 in Greifenhagen, Germany, Heidemann came from a family of leather manufacturers. He pursued studies in chemistry and leather technology, eventually leading the Institute for Macromolecular Chemistry at the Technical University of Darmstadt.

His research spanned collagen structures, tanning processes, beamhouse innovations and environmental protection in leather manufacturing.

Over his career, he guided more than 80 master’s students and 36 PhDs, published over 200 papers and authored the book “Fundamentals of Leather Manufacturing” which became a standard reference in the field.

Professor Heidemann’s legacy also includes establishing the collagen symposium that precedes every IULTCS congress. His lifelong dedication to advancing leather research earned him international recognition, including the Stiasny Medal in 1990.

The Lyon congress will continue this tradition by bringing together experts, researchers and industry leaders to discuss innovations shaping the future of leather science and technology.

The upcoming lecture by Tegtmeyer promises to highlight new opportunities for collagen-based applications, encouraging the industry to rethink how by-products can create additional value.

source – IULTCS