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Huntsman steps forward with plasticizer-free TPU for footwear sector
20 Oct '10
2 min read
Huntsman Polyurethanes has developed a complete plasticizer-free thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) for the footwear industry that has a shore hardness of 65A. AVALON 65AS has been developed for use in the production of eco-label casual shoes, children's footwear and safety boots. The product was unveiled to the sector at international trade fair SIMAC (Bologna – 12-14 October 2010).
Adding to Huntsman's established range of soft, durable, injection moldable materials, AVALON 65AS offers good anti-slip resistance and is perfect for bonding to midsole PU-systems. It is a cost effective solution that can be processed on standard injection molding equipment and round table carousels. Currently undergoing customer trials, AVALON 65AS will become widely available during 2011.
Alfons Tremml, Commercial Manager for Footwear at Huntsman said: “Historically, the production of TPUs with a typical hardness of 65 Shore A has required the use of a plasticizer. However, by carefully selecting ingredients and making adjustments to the catalysts we use, we have eliminated the use of this additive and created a brand new plasticizer-free product.
Discussions with our customers led us to take the first steps in researching and developing AVALON 65AS. Listening carefully to their ideas and understanding their requirements has enabled us to develop a TPU grade that helps them conform to new manufacturing legislation and green standards.”
Showcasing its wider expertise in producing environmentally friendly TPU grades, Huntsman also used SIMAC to demonstrate its water-based polyether systems and tin-free polyurethane products. These PUR-solutions are commonly used in men's, ladies and children's shoes.
Huntsman was the first company to launch a fully water-blown polyether system. Many other companies have subsequently followed Huntsman's lead in this area and the ability to develop environmentally friendly polyether-based products is now a prerequisite for many footwear manufacturers looking to choose a material supplier.
Adding to Huntsman's established range of soft, durable, injection moldable materials, AVALON 65AS offers good anti-slip resistance and is perfect for bonding to midsole PU-systems. It is a cost effective solution that can be processed on standard injection molding equipment and round table carousels. Currently undergoing customer trials, AVALON 65AS will become widely available during 2011.
Alfons Tremml, Commercial Manager for Footwear at Huntsman said: “Historically, the production of TPUs with a typical hardness of 65 Shore A has required the use of a plasticizer. However, by carefully selecting ingredients and making adjustments to the catalysts we use, we have eliminated the use of this additive and created a brand new plasticizer-free product.
Discussions with our customers led us to take the first steps in researching and developing AVALON 65AS. Listening carefully to their ideas and understanding their requirements has enabled us to develop a TPU grade that helps them conform to new manufacturing legislation and green standards.”
Showcasing its wider expertise in producing environmentally friendly TPU grades, Huntsman also used SIMAC to demonstrate its water-based polyether systems and tin-free polyurethane products. These PUR-solutions are commonly used in men's, ladies and children's shoes.
Huntsman was the first company to launch a fully water-blown polyether system. Many other companies have subsequently followed Huntsman's lead in this area and the ability to develop environmentally friendly polyether-based products is now a prerequisite for many footwear manufacturers looking to choose a material supplier.
Huntsman Corporation
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