Trinseo | API Presents Product Developments at International Polymers in Footwear Conference

October 19, 2018

API Presents Product Developments at International Polymers in Footwear Conference

API, an Italian company specialized in the production of thermoplastic elastomeric compounds and bioplastics, which was acquired by global materials company Trinseo in July 2017, presented its latest product developments at the “Polymers in Footwear” conference in Cologne, Germany.

The footwear conference took place from October 10-11, 2018 at the Maritim Hotel in Cologne. The international two-day conference covered the latest developments in polymer materials and production technologies for the footwear industry. Experts examined advances in plastic compounds and footwear manufacturing processes, covering cutting-edge technologies and exploring the future for this market.

At the event, API’s bioplastic experts showcased the recent material grades of APINAT^TM BIO und APILON^TM 52 BIO, a range of thermoplastic bioplastics (TPE-E or TPC). These compounds include soft and rigid grades. APILON™ 52 BIO was developed facing the increasing importance of ethical principles in the world of fashion. It is part of an evolution towards an eco-sustainable economy bringing social, economic, and environmental advantages.

Also presented at the conference: APILON^TM 52 EXP and APILON^TM 52 LIGHT– API’s materials that offer an outstanding combination of soft touch, aesthetics, and especially lightness. APILON^TM 52 EXP is designed specifically for microcellular midsoles, whereas APILON^TM 52 LIGHT, due to its good abrasion resistance, is suitable for outsoles and midsoles with a density range between 0.45 and 0.65 g/cm³ depending on the amount of blowing agent and the design of the mold.

“APILON 52 EXP and APILON 52 LIGHT stand out for their excellent physical-mechanical characteristics like flexibility and long-term bond reliability to upper materials,” said Giancarlo Busa, Business Unit Manager Footwear. “Both materials are particularly well-suited for overmolding.”

API has been dedicated to the development and manufacturing of innovative footwear material for more than 60 years. The company’s wide range of TPU’s provides manufacturers with almost unlimited design freedom. API’s TPUs are available in a wide range of hardness, a variety of densities, specific grades for security and with various aesthetic properties.

“By participating in this event, we demonstrated our commitment to the consumers' growing desire for eco-friendly material. Our materials will satisfy social, economic, and environmental benefits, without imposing performance limitations. We strongly believe in the future of innovative and sustainable solutions,” Busa said.

About API

API is an Italian company specialized in the production of thermoplastic elastomeric compounds and bioplastics. Founded in 1956, API has developed a deep and proven experience based on continuous research into innovative, customized compounds for a wide range of applications. API was acquired by global materials company Trinseo in July 2017. For more information visit www.APIplastic.com and https://www.trinseo.com/API-Plastic.