BASF introduces Elastollan^® high-performance and sustainable drop-in solution for premium synthetic leather applications

• Drop-in solution enables efficient production on the same calendaring production line and is made without the use of solvents
• Contributes to sustainable development as the solution can be chemically and mechanically recycled
• Advanced solution possesses excellent resistance to abrasion and hydrolysis
• Appealing for premium application owing to its luxurious look and feel

Singapore – December 6, 2021 – With Elastollan^® Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), BASF now offers a high-performance and sustainable drop-in solution for premium synthetic leather applications in fashion consumables, furniture, and automotive segments.

As both calendaring and extrusion production lines can be used to process Elastollan TPU, PVC manufacturers can utilize its existing calendaring line and ‘drop-in’ Elastollan TPU seamlessly and cost-effectively.

Additionally, with Elastollan TPU, synthetic leather can be produced without the use of solvents, meeting stringent VOC standards. Elastollan TPU further contributes to sustainable development as it can be recycled mechanically and chemically.

“The drop-in solution enables flexible and efficient processing. PVC manufacturers can now diversify their portfolio to offer both PVC and high-performance TPU.  This contributes to sustainable development, as more TPU can be used by PVC manufacturers for the production of synthetic leather,” said Marilyn Lye, Vice President, Business Management Industrial, Performance Materials Asia Pacific.

Elastollan TPU is also appealing for premium applications owing to its excellent soft-touch haptics, which help to enhance the look and feel of end products. Moreover, it is easy to dye and emboss, allowing a variety of colors and designs. It is also a material of choice as it possesses outstanding properties, including high abrasion resistance, hydrolysis resistance, and cold flexibility.  

The global synthetic leather market size is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% from 2021 to 2028. The increased use of synthetic leathers across various segments, such as furnishing, automotive, clothing, bags, and others, will drive the market growth. (Source: Grand View Research)

About BASF’s Performance Materials division

BASF’s Performance Materials division encompasses the entire materials’ know-how of BASF regarding innovative, customized plastics under one roof. Globally active in four major industry sectors – transportation, construction, industrial applications and consumer goods – the division has a strong portfolio of products and services combined with deep understanding of application-oriented system solutions. Key drivers of profitability and growth are our close collaboration with customers and a clear focus on solutions. Strong capabilities in R&D provide the basis to develop innovative products and applications. In 2020, the Performance Materials division achieved global sales of €5.63 bn. More information online: www.plastics.basf.com.

About BASF

About BASF At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. More than 110,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio is organized into six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of €59 billion in 2020. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the U.S. Further information at www.basf.com.