Huntsman has developed a liquid thermoplastic polyurethane (LTPU) that enables the rapid manufacture of high-performing midsoles. This aligns with the circularity ambitions of brands manufacturing sports and athleisure footwear.
The SMARTLITE O LTPU system can be processed in a single step, using significantly less water and energy and generating less waste and carbon emissions. It can also be converted and repurposed into new materials in post-industrial or post-consumer forms.
The system was officially unveiled at SIMAC, Milan and the FDRA’s Shoe Sustainability Summit in Portland, Oregon.
The brand partnered with the Framas Group for this launch, which can produce up to two million soling constructions per annum using the material.
Processed on low-pressure casting machines, it can help streamline shoe manufacturing with in-situ polymerisation and adhesive-free bonding of midsoles to TPU outsoles.
The hydrolysis-resistant midsoles offer long-lasting, step-in cushioning comfort with over fifty per cent rebound and open up new creative opportunities, delivering enhanced surface definition.
“The material stands out from the competition, offering multiple advantages over and above PU, ETPU and EVA. Several big brands have already expressed considerable interest in the technology, and we look forward to working with Framas to bring the material and all its benefits to the market,” said Alexis Bortoluzzi, Senior Director of Global Elastomers at Huntsman.
