LAPP uses BASF’s new bio-based plastic – the organic plastic ETHERLINE? is now available

April 14, 2023 - LAPP and BASF are collaborating on sustainability. Both companies hope their products can help reduce carbon footprints. An important part of this is the use of bio-based plastics. LAPP will now present the first network cable with a sheath made of bio-based plastic at the Hannover Messe in Hall 11, Stand C05. The compound was developed by the chemical company BASF.

In fact, the ETHERLINE® FD P Cat.5e for industrial networks has long been present in LAPP's product range. It is ideal for patch cord applications and cable chains. Now, it's back in a more sustainable version. The global market leader for comprehensive solutions in the field of cable and connection technology has replaced BASF's old TPU material (thermoplastic polyurethane) with BASF's new TPU. Whereas previous TPU sheath materials were based on fossil raw materials, the new material now used is based on renewable raw materials. Alexander Terpe, Head of Cable Product Development at U.I. Lapp GmbH: "Using plastics from rapidly renewable raw materials and on an organic basis reduces our need for plastics derived from fossil raw materials and at the same time reduces the carbon footprint of our products. a good way.

Sustainability starts with more sustainable products

That is the bio-based plastic, BASF's thermoplastic polyurethane Elastollan® N. It is a bio-based polymer derived from corn. Depending on the type of TPU, the proportion of renewable raw materials can be 45% to 60%. The highlight is that this TPU has the same durability, flexibility and mechanical properties as traditional Elastollan®, as well as hydrolysis, chemical and UV resistance. Even the machinability parameters are the same. A special feature is that the proportion of biological material in the finished product can actually not only be detected, but also precisely measured (according to ASTM D 6866).

Oliver Mühren, Group Sales Manager at BASF Polyurethanes GmbH, explained: "BASF's bio-based TPU is a real high-performance product, in no way inferior to traditional fossil fuels. It can be quickly switched in production and provides us with more sustainable products. customers with real added value.”

From a life cycle assessment, biobased products reduce the CO2 footprint by 15%. Elastollan® N is part of BASF's circular economy strategy, which helps conserve fossil resources and reduce CO2 emissions. LAPP will also continue to expand its product portfolio of bio-based sheathing materials step by step.