Under the campaign motto “Make the Move”, the company will present polyurethane (PU) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) technologies covering different stages of the footwear lifecycle.
Among the highlights is Elastopan® Spring Pure, developed together with Gusbi for thermoformed midsoles. The technology is designed to combine low density, design flexibility and durability with an automated, low-waste production process.
BASF is also presenting a closed-loop footwear concept developed with Desma. Three concept shoes demonstrate how PU and TPU components can be separated, mechanically or chemically recycled and reused in new footwear production.
“We offer fusible PU and TPU materials that do not end up as waste, but can be recovered, recycled and reused for the production of new shoes. In this way, we are closing the footwear loop,” said Felix Willenbrink, Marketing Manager Footwear, Sports and Leisure at BASF.
Further developments include Infinergy® Revolution, a new heatpress-based processing technology for expanded TPU, and Elastollan® Griptec, a TPU solution for outsoles designed to provide high traction, abrasion resistance and greater recycling potential.
At its booth in Hall 14, K24/L23, BASF will also present the winning designs of its 20th Footwear Design Contest with Politecnico Calzaturiero and host live #FootwearTalks with customers, partners and industry experts.
