API, an Italian company specialized in the production of thermoplastic elastomeric compounds and bioplastics has introduced its newest lightweight footwear solutions, APILONTM 52 EXP and APILONTM 52 LIGHT, at the SIMAC Tanning Tech in Milan.
APILON 52 EXP and APILON 52 LIGHT are API’s newest expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) materials, offering an outstanding combination of soft touch, aesthetics and especially lightness. APILON 52 EXP is designed specifically for microcellular midsoles, whereas APILON 52 LIGHT, due to its good abrasion resistance, is suitable for outsoles and midsoles.
Both materials offer a good chemical adhesion on TPU outsoles and can be mixed with blowing agent masterbatch, and APICOLORTM color masterbatches especially designed for expanded TPU grades.
“APILON 52 EXP and APILON 52 LIGHT stand out for their excellent physical-mechanical characteristics like flexibility and long-term bond reliability to upper materials,” says Giancarlo Busa, Business Unit Manager Footwear. “Both materials are particularly well-suited for overmoulding.”
API has been dedicated to the development and manufacturing of innovative footwear material for decades. The company’s wide range of TPU’s provides manufacturers with almost unlimited design freedom. API’s TPUs are available in a wide range of hardness, a variety of densities, specific grades for security and with various aesthetic properties.
API is an Italian company specialized in the production of thermoplastic elastomeric compounds and bioplastics. Founded in 1956, API has developed a deep and proven experience based on continuous research into innovative, customized compounds for a wide range of applications. API was acquired by global materials company Trinseo in July 2017.
