The paper presents a study on optimizing leather defect detection using the YOLOv11 model. Traditional leather processing has faced challenges in quality control, where human inspection accuracy ranges between 70% to 85%, affecting leather utilization rates and resulting in significant material waste. This research introduces an automated solution to improve defect classification and detection accuracy. The study focuses on defects commonly found in leather, such as insect larvae damage and removal cuts, using a specialized light chamber to control environmental variables. By analyzing both grain and flesh sides of the leather, the researchers demonstrated a significant increase in defect detection accuracy, with the flesh side achieving a higher classification rate. YOLOv11's dual-side analysis allowed for clearer identification of subtle defects, leading to a more efficient classification process. The results suggest that integrating advanced AI models like YOLOv11 with controlled digitization environments could drastically reduce human error and improve leather utilization, providing a scalable solution for the leather industry.

One of the major sources of catastrophic failures and deterioration of the mechanical properties of metals such as ductility, toughness, and strength, of various engineering components during application is hydrogen embrittlement (HE). It occurs as a result of adsorption, diffusion, and interaction of hydrogen with various metal defects like dislocations, voids, grain boundaries and oxide/matrix interfaces due to its small atomic size. Over the years, extensive effort has been dedicated to understanding hydrogen embrittlement sources, effects, and mechanisms. This research aimed at assessing the tensile properties; toughness, ductility, and susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement, of cold-finished mild steel. Steel coupons were subjected to electrochemical hydrogen charging in a carefully chosen alkaline solution over a particular time and at various charging current densities. Tensile property tests were conducted immediately post the charging process, and the results were compared with those of uncharged steel. The findings revealed a clear drop in toughness and ductility with increasing hydrogen content. Fracture surfaces were examined to determine failure mechanisms. This evaluation has enabled the prediction of the steel's ability to withstand environments with elevated hydrogen concentrations during practical applications.