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APILON™ 52 BIO TL 25 / Bio-based

What is this bio-based polymer?

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is part of the family of Thermoplastic Elastomers, known as TPEs. Due to their cross-linking structure, these materials show rubbery behaviour but can be injection moulded like other thermoplastics, unlike many other rubbery materials that are thermosets. TPU is a common choice for applications that require especially good wear and abrasion resistance.

APILON™ 52 BIO TPU grades contain raw materials from renewable sources. These bioplastics offer environmental benefits while having the same physical and mechanical properties as traditional fossil-based TPU. This grade, APILON™ 52 BIO TL 25, has a bio-based mass content of 54%. The material is suitable for processing by injection moulding.

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Material properties

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  • Density  [g/cm3]         1.13 

  • Hardness Sh.A  (15 sec)          84

  • Hardness Sh.D  (3 sec)     33

  • Tear strength (type C) [KN/m]   85  

  • Tensile strength at 100% [MPa]      5 

  • Tensile strength at 300%  [MPa]       9 

  • Tensile strength (type IVB) [MPa]     45 

  • Elongation at break    [%]   700
    The material family includes rigid grades with a hardness in the range 40–72 ShD and soft grades with a hardness in the range of 65–95 ShA.

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Positive Plastics_Apilon

Technical benefits

The mechanical performance of the material is at the same level as fossil-based alternatives. The common strengths of TPU’s include:

  • High wear and abrasion resistance

  • Good mechanical strength

  • Resistance to oil and grease

  • Flexibility across a wide temperature range

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Look and feel

The surface quality is excellent on both glossy and structured surfaces, which is nicely enhanced by the deep black colour. A transparent option is also available. The chosen grade, with relatively low hardness, has a flexible and rubbery feeling.  

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Environmental benefits

The bioplastics from renewable sources offer significant environmental benefits:

  • 35% - Saving in non-renewable energy

  • 22% - Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions

  • 40% - Reduction of water consumption

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Applications

Possible applications for the material include footwear and fashion, consumer electronics, sporting goods, personal care, hand tools; products that today utilize mostly fossil-based TPU grades.

Consumer Goods
Power Tools
Sports Goods

Why we chose this bio-based polymer 

From the sustainability point of view, bio-based grades make an interesting alternative to fossil-based materials. We were impressed by the high percentage of the bio-based content, which is rare to find.

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Why you should consider this material

You need a soft TPU grade for your product. This material offers improved sustainability without the risk of jeopardizing the performance of the end product.

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About the manufacturer

Trinseo is a global materials solutions provider and manufacturer of plastics and latex binders. Trinseo’s technology and materials are used in industries such as home appliances, automotive, building & construction, carpet, consumer electronics, consumer goods, electrical & lighting, medical, packaging, paper & paperboard.

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