BASF and Keep to showcase new training mat made with Elastollan® at CHINAPLAS 2022
- Supercritical fluid foaming technology provides long-term cushioning and support for the training mat
- Foaming process makes post-consumer recyclability of the mat possible
- BASF at Chinaplas 2022: C61, Hall 7.2, National Convention & Exhibition Center, Shanghai, China
Shanghai, China – March 14, 2022 – At CHINAPLAS 2022, BASF will showcase a training mat made with Elastollan® thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) by Keep, a leading Chinese brand in the sports and fitness industry. For the training mat application, Elastollan® is manufactured with supercritical fluid (SCF) foaming technology. The technology, which turns gas into liquid form at high temperatures and pressure, enables TPU foam to be dispersed evenly.
“We want to elevate the experience of our consumers when using our training mat and push the boundaries in sustainability. The collaboration with creative partners like BASF brings our goals to life as their TPU enables strong cushioning and support for low to high-intensity exercises,” said Mr. Liu Dong, Vice President, Keep.
Elastollan® has a high melt strength and when manufactured with the SCF foaming method, it produces a uniform foam structure without material deformation after prolonged use. This not only improves the performance and stability of the foam produced, but also reduces scrap rate and overall energy consumption.
As no crosslinking or chemical blowing agents are used in the foaming process, post-consumer recyclability of the mat is possible. Elastollan® is also made without the use of plasticizers.
Beyond sporting equipment, the SCF foaming technology combined with agile prototyping and molding processes, has opened up design possibilities for shoemaking.
“There are always constant demands for new and improved solutions that can deliver high performance and are more sustainable. Innovation is key in the sports and footwear industry. Our SCF foaming solution provides sporting and footwear brands with the perfect combination of comfort and durability,” said Minli Zhao, Vice President, Consumer Industry, BASF Performance Materials Asia Pacific.
The SCF foaming technology also contributes to lightweight and cool-to-touch products. For more information about our footwear TPU solutions, click here.
About BASF
At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Around 111,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of €78.6 billion in 2021. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the U.S. Further information at www.basf.com.
About BASF’s Performance Materials division
BASF’s Performance Materials division encompasses the entire materials’ know-how of BASF regarding innovative, customized plastics under one roof. Globally active in four major industry sectors – transportation, construction, industrial applications and consumer goods – the division has a strong portfolio of products and services combined with deep understanding of application-oriented system solutions. Key drivers of profitability and growth are our close collaboration with customers and a clear focus on solutions. Strong capabilities in R&D provide the basis to develop innovative products and applications. In 2021, the Performance Materials division achieved global sales of €7.29 bn. More information: www.plastics.basf.com.
Elastollan® manufactured through the SCF foaming TPU technology provides long-term cushioning and support in yoga mats.
SCF foaming TPU technology suitable for sporting and footwear applications.