BASF Polymers for Design Flexibility, High Rebound, and Excellent Cushioning in Footwear

15-Dec-22

Leading safety footwear provider Berkat Safety has launched safety boots made with BASF’s Elastollan Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), Elastopan Polyurethane (PU) and Infinergy Expanded Thermoplastic Polyurethane (E-TPU). The innovative material solutions provide long-term comfort, energy return, lightweight cushioning, and superior slip resistance for workers.

The KAMU range is made for worksites with harsh conditions such as mining, construction, civil engineering, and manufacturing, as well as in extreme climates in Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea.

At the heart of the KAMU safety footwear is the unique safety shoe design consisting of Elastollan in the outsole, Elastopan in the midsole, and Infinergy as part of an additional midsole. When used in the midsole, Infinergy provides athlete-approved energy return while absorbing the impact of heavy loads, minimizing fatigue and stress on joints and muscles.

“By combining these dynamic materials for the KAMU soles, we were able to enhance properties such as strength and durability, SRC-rated slip resistance, oil, and fuel resistance, while ensuring compliance with Australian and international safety standards. Once again, we demonstrated our ability to innovate and co-create new market offerings with our customers,” said Minli Zhao, Vice President, Consumer Industry, BASF Performance Materials.

Source: BASF