Sustainable, light TPU made with bio-based content

The Italian company specialized in the production of thermoplastic elastomeric compounds and bioplastics, API, which was acquired by global materials company Trinseo in July 2017, is presenting the new expandable bio-based TPU Apilon 52 BIO Light at Simac Tanning Tech 2020, February 19-21, in Milan, Italy.

“We are very dedicated towards building a sustainable future, where complete circularity is attained through thoughtful innovation,” said Giancarlo Busa, Global Market Leader Footwear. “What we are bringing to the Simac Tanning Tech 2020 is a TPU that is light, made with bio-based raw materials.

“This is another step Trinseo is taking towards meeting our sustainability goals, which also strengthens our already broad portfolio in luxury, athletic, and professional footwear. This is especially encouraging as we believe bio-based materials will become the de facto choice in luxury footwear by the year 2030.”

Apilon 52 BIO Light is an additional development by Trinseo in the expansion of its portfolio of sustainable materials, as it is the company’s first lightweight thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) made with bio-based content. The material reduces production cycle time by up to 60% compared to thermosetting materials like EVA, therefore cutting production costs and lowering energy consumption.

Moreover, its outstanding characteristics - lightness (density down to 0.4 g/cm3), softness (hardness between 35 and 50 shA), natural haptics with velvet touch, and sustainability - provide manufacturers with more options when it comes to bringing their designs to life in vivid colors. This is available through the in-house produced Apicolor, a color masterbatch allowing for a vast range of tone options.

Trinseo is a member of the European Bioplastics Association and its commitment to sustainability has been condensed in Bio & Beyond, a strategy to replace fossil-based materials with bio-based alternatives. Through Bio & Beyond, Trinseo also aims to continue supporting its fashion and footwear customers by helping them overcome material challenges, without hindering their creativity and expressivity. In the long run, Trinseo’s objective is to lessen the dependency on fossil fuels.