Covestro to expand production of bio-based TPUs in Europe

Covestro said it is advancing a product portfolio based on the substitution of limited resources, with plans to expand its mass-balanced thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) in Europe in 2022, and then gradually to Asia
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The new products are produced using bio-based raw materials and have a smaller carbon footprint than their fossil-based counterparts
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At the same time, the mass-balanced product has the same quality and performance and can be directly applied to the manufacturing process of the downstream industry without modifying the technology
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The product will be certified according to the ISCC Plus standard
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Over the past few years, Covestro has introduced various TPU products based on alternative fossil resources as more and more consumers prefer more sustainable products
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For example, outdoor outfitter VAUDE plans to use a midsole partially made from bio-based TPU in its new Lavik Eco hiking boots
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In addition to this, Covestro's range of TPU plastics under the Desmopan brand includes a range of fully recycled products that are already used in smartphone cases
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Dr.
Andrea Maier-Richter, Global Head of Covestro's TPU business, said: "I am delighted that we will soon be able to help customers in consumer electronics, footwear, automotive and other industries reduce their carbon footprint with this direct solution
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Offering quality-balanced products is part of Covestro's global plan to achieve a circular economy
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Along the way, the company has focused on increasing the use of alternative fossil resources, such as bio-based materials, renewable energy and more, and has also worked with partners to develop innovative recycling technologies
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To date, three Covestro production sites in Europe and Asia Pacific have been certified to the ISCC Plus standard, with more to follow
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