Bio-based thermoplastic elastomer used for running shoes

02-Sep-09

Japanese sports equipment manufacturer Mizuno Corp has selected a bio-based thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) - Pebax Rnew grade from the French producer Arkema to produce midsole for four new models of running shoes. T because it is stemming fhis choice has been made because the material is made from renewable resource that does not compete with food production i.e. castor oil and because it has a wide range of Shore hardness ranging from Shore A 75-80 to Shore D 70-72. Furthermore it is 20% lighter than other TPE such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and provides better flex fatigue resistance and better UV resistance while offering stable properties at low temperature.