The Brazilian Institute for Leather, Footwear and Leathergoods Technology IBTeC (formerly CTCCA) has signed an agreement with Orbys Materials Technology Development Ltd. to carry out a joint research project into the application of nanotechnology in the production of shoe components.

Orbys carries out research, development and sales of high performance materials offering solutions in the field of polymeric nanocomposite technology for applications in the transformation and leathergoods industries. 

The State University of Campinas (Unicamp) will also take part in this research project, designed to develop a component for the production of adhesives (for soles, heels and insoles) based on the mechanical and antistatic properties of polymeric nanocomposites and clays. Another posssible application for the new component would be for air retention in sports balls.