BASF has partnered with China's leading sports brand, Li-Ning, to create a 100% recyclable concept shoe made entirely from Elastollan thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).
Innovative Design with High-Performance Materials
Leveraging Elastollan’s high-performance material solutions, the all-TPU concept shoe offers exceptional design flexibility. It is lightweight and comfortable while delivering outstanding mechanical properties, including durability and slip resistance:
Elastollan Freeflex™ Series for Uppers: Freeflex™ TPU provides excellent adhesion to TPU films and midsoles, along with superior abrasion resistance.
High-Temperature Elastollan Films for Uppers: These films offer excellent softness and adhesion to fabrics, anti-blooming properties, and wash resistance. They also allow diverse surface effects through various treatments.
Elastollan Freeflex™ Shoelaces: The TPU material ensures elasticity, durability, and anti-loosening properties.
Injection-Molded Elastollan for Decorations and Support: Available in various hardness levels, it enhances physical properties and processability, allowing greater design flexibility and improved stability.
Elastollan for Midsoles and Insoles: When used in midsoles, it provides excellent shock absorption, high resilience, flexibility, hydrolysis resistance, and wear resistance.
Low Hardness Elastollan for Outsoles: Offers superior abrasion resistance and high-traction tread patterns, maximizing surface contact and enhancing grip.
Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
Marilyn Lye, Vice President of BASF’s Performance Materials Asia Pacific, stated, “The collaboration between Li-Ning and BASF demonstrates how we can create win-win solutions to achieve both footwear business goals and sustainability objectives. Our advanced technology and recyclable materials in this concept shoe set a strong example for the entire footwear production value chain, advancing our journey toward sustainability.”
Li-Ning expressed enthusiasm for providing professional product and sports experiences to athletes while exploring the feasibility of fully recyclable footwear. The brand continues to pursue breakthroughs and innovations in sports technology.
Source: BASF, NTMT New Textile Materials
