BASF: First expanded TPU

To produce the Infinergy beads, BASF’s Elastollan TPU is expanded. The process runs at the Ludwigshafen headquarters of BASF. Being a particle foam, Infinergy has a low bulk weight with a density of about 110 kg/m3 and, after processing on standard moulding machines, a moulded part weight of between 200 and 320 kg/m3. Thanks to its closed-cell structure, Infinergy absorbs only little water, less than 2 % by volume in 24 h. A main characteristic of the E-TPU is its excellent recovery behaviour, which is due partly to the closed cell structure of the foam. Infinergy beads can be processed on the same moulding machines and with the same binders as EPP (see report in TPE 03/2013).

BASF Polyurethanes furthermore will introduce a new antistatic TPU granulate under the Elastostat brand name. The product, part of the Elastollan product range, is available as a masterbatch, i. e. as a ready-to-use granular mix. The material is highly compatible with standard plastics like PE, PP, PS, and ABS. It can simply be mixed with the polymers and thus eliminates the need for elaborate compounding. This is of great significance for the plastics processing industry, because usually no liquid additives are processed. The properties of the matrix materials are scarcely affected and, thanks to the additive’s neutral colouration, the material can be dyed in any desired colour. The new TPU masterbatch opens up large fields of application, particularly for industrial packaging made of polyolefins. The TPU additive could also be used in pipelines, hoses and conveyor belts to prevent the electrostatic charging of the transported material. Another application sector is the automotive industry, which is increasingly demanding dirt-insensitive materials. Plastic surfaces in vehicles are also susceptible to electrostatic charging. An elevated surface tension can cause the materials to attract dust and dirt particles. The antistatic masterbatch can be used in both film extrusion and injection moulding to reduce the surfaces’ dust effect. The possible applications here are mainly in the vehicle interior, e. g. in linings, covers, instrument panels, headliners, sun visors, and seat covers. A third field of use comprises packaging and transport systems for electronics

Hall 5, stand C21