Huntsman targets circularity with TPU soling range
Chemicals and materials group Huntsman has developed a range of high-performing thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) materials for soling that provides grip and durability and has been developed with circularity in mind.
The Avalon Gecko TPU portfolio offers a series of products for soling applications, including an extrudable grade for creating very thin outsoles and a product that can be foamed to produce a low density, soft material.
Drawing inspiration from the grip of geckos, products offer comparable slip performance to rubber in both wet and dry conditions, according to Huntsman.
“The go-to outsole material in the footwear industry has traditionally been rubber, with its performance combination of durability and slip resistance,” Peter Chiang, a senior marketing manager for footwear at Huntsman, told sportstextiles.com. “This is particularly true in the sports sector. With the increased emphasis on recyclability, our team took the challenge to develop a thermoplastic polyurethane solution developed with circularity in mind that could compete with rubber.”
To ensure design and production versatility, Huntsman has developed three grades: Avalon 6044 AG, an opaque injectable grade that is ideal for safety shoes; Avalon 6053 AG, a transparent extrusion grade optimised for running applications; and Avalon 6055 AG, a transparent injectable grade for wet slip performance.
The extrudable Avalon 6053 AG TPU enables the creation of outsoles that are up to 50% thinner and lighter than conventional outsoles, said Huntsman, while the injectable 6044 AG grade has been developed to offer fast cycle times for improved productivity.
All grades offer adhesive-free bonding when paired with other TPU midsole materials (such as Huntsman’s liquid TPU for midsoles) and can be mechanically recycled with minimal impact on material performance. They can also be coloured and engineered to create different textures and surface finishes.
Matthew Canoy, global marketing director for PU elastomers at Huntsman, said: “The development of Avalon Gecko TPU represents a significant advancement towards achieving circular footwear. Developed to be dependable, durable, and with circularity in mind, these materials ensure that sustainability and high performance are in lock step with one another, with no compromises. The feedback we’ve received from customers has been incredibly positive.”
Avalon Gecko TPU was officially launched at the NW Materials Show in Portland, US, on August 28.
Image: Vecteezy
