Publication: Nov 19, 2024

Q&A: TPE made from Renewable Resources: Overcoming Challenges and Unlocking Solutions TPE


Here we answer some of the questions raised in our webinar 'TPE from Renewable Resources: Overcoming challenges and unlocking solutions'. 

In the webinar, my colleague Magdalena Michl and I summarized the current market response to TPEs made from renewable resources, including the pitfalls, possible future development directions and ready-to-buy alternatives.


Take advantage of the free 25-minute webinar to get a quick and up-to-date overview of the topic. Please contact us if you would like to discuss this topic in person.


What materials does KRAIBURG TPE use to produce bio-based TPE?

For our bio-based TPE, we replace some of these virgin raw materials with bio-based ones. Hereby, we focus on the usage of second and third generation feedstocks. Second and third generation feedstocks are not suitable for food or feed and include non-food crops, by-products of food and feed production and waste streams.

Does KRAIBURG TPE use the mass balance approach for the production of bio-based TPE?

All bio-based compounds from KRAIBURG TPE are based on renewable raw materials to a certain extent. We do not apply a mass balance approach.

We consider the mass balance approach as a solution for markets in which the use of TPEs made from renewable raw materials or with recycled content is not yet possible for regulatory reasons. (E.g. our THERMOLAST ® M Medical compounds are available with an ISCC PLUS mass balance approach)
 



How do you ensure the constant quality and performance of the bio-based TPE?

Intensive material testing is the basis for demonstrating product performance and providing reliable product solutions to the market. We have found that there is a wide range of bio-based raw materials that perform comparably to virgin materials, and today we use many of them in our bio-based TPE portfolio, even for demanding applications with adhesion to polar substrates such as ABS/PC or polyamides. 

We have defined specifications and control plans for our incoming raw materials as well as for our TPE compounds during and after production. As a result, we feel very confident in proposing bio-based material solutions and are happy to discuss any further questions you may have!

What is the current situation regarding drinking water?

The bio-based TPEs that we presented during the webinar are not tested to drinking water market standards such as KTW-BWGL or WRAS.  For this market we have a dedicated range of materials, THERMOLAST® DW, which comes with the appropriate regulatory package.


However, we are open-minded and look forward to discussing the possibilities for more sustainable TPE in the drinking water market with you in a one-to-one meeting to review the exact requirements for your applications and what we can do.


Explore our bio-based TPE

Bio-based TPEs also have a lower product carbon footprint than established alternatives that are not based on renewable raw materials.

 

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