Texon announced that footwear manufacturers looking to boost the amount of recycled material in their shoes, without compromising quality, now have a new insole technology at their disposal. According to the manufacturer, Texon Ecoline is a material that optimally combines strength and sustainability. Based on 85 % recycled polyester (rPET), it is 100 % recyclable and up to 32 % lighter than similar materials, but delivers the same strength and performance as heavier substrates.
The material is produced via a fusion-bonded process that is said to enhance the internal bonding structure of the material’s fibres, which are randomly arranged. This manufacturing method makes the material stronger while retaining the thin, lightweight qualities required for insole applications. It is also said to be more environmentally friendly, using up to 50 % less energy per square metre of material and consuming less water and chemicals. Texon has integrated the product into its take back programme for solid waste recycling. This scheme enables footwear producers to return any offcuts to the company to create more of the same product – reducing the amount of material sent to landfill and saving manufacturers money on waste disposal costs.
James Chandler, New Product Development Manager at Texon, said: “Texon Ecoline is a breakthrough product that fits perfectly with our zero waste ambitions and the needs of our customers, who we know want strong, lightweight materials for non woven insoles, which are also highly sustainable. As a team we are incredibly proud of this product. Earlier this year we publicly declared our ambition to become a zero waste business by 2025. As part of this commitment we’re scaling down our use of virgin materials and developing pioneering new solutions that allow us to take less from the planet and optimise what we already have. Texon Ecoline reflects this approach and proves it is possible to make high performance lightweight insoles from recycled material, without compromising performance or quality.”
Designed for use in cement lasted and vulcanised constructions, Texon Ecoline is suitable for most types of footwear. The material is said to offer very good moisture absorption and dispersal qualities, which enhance foot comfort in all conditions. It also has a high sole bond adhesion with neoprene and polyurethane adhesives. The material is available in sheet form in a neutral colour or can be supplied in net form for better management of solid waste. Different gauges, manufacturing methods and treatments allow for versatility and a wide range of applications, said the company.