At the international trade fair for technical textiles and nonwovens Techtextil (14–17 May 2019, Frankfurt, Germany) BASF will highlight its expertise in fabrics, films, nonwovens, yarns and hot-melt adhesives based on Elastollan thermoplastic polyurethane. Due to its high elasticity and mechanical strength, the plastic is suitable for the production of a wide range of materials for the textile industry.
Elastollan is can be used to produce breathable and water-vapour-permeable membranes, and also for highly tear-resistant fabrics, such as those needed in the construction industry. Roof underlays made of the TPU, for example, are durable and have a particular high tear strength. In addition, they are well-suited for bonding and welding.
Similar properties are also important in the use of Elastollan in medical films. For example, the opaque film type Elastollan SP 818 combines very high water vapour permeability with good adhesion and processing properties, especially for blown film extrusion.
Also on show at Techtextil 2019 will be TPU-coated polyester and polyether fibres, whose uses include processing into UV-resistant, highly flexible fabrics for shading systems or leisure furniture. The fibres are characterised by their flexibility, high mechanical strength and tear resistance.
To demonstrate its expertise as a supplier of integrated solutions for TPU and TPU-based adhesives, BASF will be showcasing two further products at the trade fair:
- Elastollan Bondura is a TPU for solvent-based adhesives and extrusion coatings. It can be used as a base polymer for single-component adhesives or in combination with cross-linking agents.
- Elastollan Hotbond is a TPU for hot-melt adhesives. The melt flow index can be adapted according to the type.
At Techtextil, BASF will also present the full suite of Freeflex fibre spun from Elastollan TPU. From rigid fibres to soft and elastic material, different materials will be displayed at the event. Each fibre is able to fulfill different applications – from shoe upper to apparel and even anti-run upholstery. For consumers, it ensures an excellent fit thanks to its enormous stretch and recovery. The material also enables design freedom with its versatility in colours and textures provided and is also sustainable.
Freeflex has inspired the US fashion label Seven Crash. The resulting collection „Quantus“ stands for the combination of fashionable design and high functionality and was shown this year at the New York Fashion Week. As a highlight, visitors of the Techtextil can try on a jacket from the collection and convince themselves of the high quality.
In addition, further exhibits will be shown at the BASF Techtextil booth, including an engine encapsulation with natural fibres from a cooperation with Greiner Perfoam GmbH and a lightweight automotive roof frame from a cooperation with IAC Group. Further exhibits include glass nonwovens for exhaust air treatment of lacquer cabins and glass meshes for the reinforcement of plaster and insulation systems.