Benefits of Infinergy®
- Low density
- High abrasion resistance
- High elasticity
- High tensile strength
- Outstanding resilience
- Good chemical resistance in a wide temperature range
Performance Polymers
Infinergy® by BASF
Since 2013, Infinergy® has redefined the running shoe market with the breakthrough E-TPU beads, powering exceptional energy return, responsive cushioning, next-level comfort, and lasting durability. Infinergy® incorporates E-TPU and TPU solutions for midsoles, enabling brands to address diverse design, performance, and application needs with greater flexibility.
What are the foam properties of the Infinergy® portfolio?
Performance & Athletic
| E-TPU Steamchest | Autoclave | |
| Midsole Density (g/L) | 110 - 140 | 80 - 110 |
| Asker (C) | 35 - 40 | 36 - 40 |
|
Rebound [%] - |
>75 | >75 |
| Split Tear (kg/cm) | 4.5 | 4.5 |
| Compression set (50%, 50°C, 24hrs) | 28 | 18 |
| Sustainable Options | Bio Based Recycled content* |
Bio Based Recycled content* |
CO2 reduction (Mass Balance), Renewable Content (Bio-based) Up to 50%
*Recycled content: Up to 50% (project basis, depending on feedstock availability)
| E-TPU Steamchest | Autoclave | |
| Midsole Density (g/L) | 120 - 150 | 80 - 110 |
| Asker (C) | 45 | 48 - 52 |
|
Rebound [%] - |
>75 | >75 |
| Split Tear (kg/cm) | 3.5 | 3.0 |
| Compression set (50%, 50°C, 24hrs) | 28 | 12 |
| Sustainable Options |
Mass Balance |
Mass Balance Recycled content* |
CO2 reduction (Mass Balance), Renewable Content (Bio-based) Up to 50%
*Recycled content: Up to 50% (project basis, depending on feedstock availability)
| SCF Injection | |
| Midsole Density (g/L) | 120 - 150 |
| Asker (C) | 45 |
|
Rebound [%] - |
>70 |
| Split Tear (kg/cm) | 4.0 |
| Compression set (50%, 50°C, 24hrs) |
40 |
Athleisure, Lifestyle & Beyond (e.g. toys, stroller tires, saddles)
| SCF Injection | |
| Midsole Density (g/L) | 170 - 200 |
| Asker (C) | 45 |
|
Rebound [%] - |
>55 |
| Sustainable Options | Mass Balance Bio based Recycled content* |
CO2 reduction (Mass Balance), Renewable Content (Bio-based) Up to 50%
*Recycled content: Up to 50% (project basis, depending on feedstock availability)
| SCF Injection | |
| Midsole Density (g/L) | 120 - 150 |
| Asker (C) | 45 |
|
Rebound [%] - |
>70 |
| E-TPU Steamchest | |
| Midsole Density (g/L) | 180 - 220 |
| Asker (C) | 40 - 50 |
|
Rebound [%] - |
>65 |
| Sustainable Options |
Mass Balance |
CO2 reduction (Mass Balance), Renewable Content (Bio-based) Up to 50%
*Recycled content: Up to 50% (project basis, depending on feedstock availability)
| E-TPU Steamchest | |
| Midsole Density (g/L) | 160 - 190 |
| Asker (C) | 35 |
|
Rebound [%] - |
>70 |
| Sustainable Options | Mass Balance Bio based Recycled content* |
CO2 reduction (Mass Balance), Renewable Content (Bio-based) Up to 50%
*Recycled content: Up to 50% (project basis, depending on feedstock availability)
| E-TPU Heat Press | |
| Midsole Density (g/L) | 170 - 200 |
| Asker (C) | 35 - 42 |
|
Rebound [%] - |
>65 |
| Sustainable Options | Mass Balance Bio based Recycled content* |
CO2 reduction (Mass Balance), Renewable Content (Bio-based) Up to 50%
*Recycled content: Up to 50% (project basis, depending on feedstock availability)
How can Infinergy® be processed?”
Infinergy® can be processed using various foaming technologies, including supercritical fluid (SCF) injection molding, autoclave foaming, and advanced bead foaming processes.
What are the application areas of the materials within the Infinergy® midsole portfolio?
Infinergy® meets the requirements of the RoHS Directive (2011/65/EU and its amendments) and is not classified as dangerous goods under UN transport regulations. Information on other regulations, such as GADSL, will be provided on request. Infinergy® is also recyclable.
Consult with an expert
Self-service solutions:
FAQ
Q: Which TPU is suitable for footwear?
Expanded TPU (E-TPU) such as Infinergy® by BASF is optimized for footwear. It combines excellent energy return, cushioning, durability, and comfort, helping brands create midsoles that enhance athletic performance while maintaining long-term comfort and resilience. It is widely used in running, athletic, lifestyle, and specialty footwear applications.
Q: What are the key benefits of Infinergy® compared to conventional midsole materials?
Compared with traditional midsole materials, Infinergy® offers higher energy return, exceptional durability, superior cushioning, and long-lasting performance. Its unique E-TPU structure helps maintain comfort and resilience over time, reducing performance degradation even after extensive use.
Q: How can TPU improve comfort and performance in footwear?
E-TPU such as Infinergy® absorbs impact forces while returning energy during movement. This combination of cushioning and rebound helps reduce fatigue, increase comfort, and deliver a more responsive experience for walkers, runners, and athletes. Its lightweight properties further contribute to overall footwear performance.
Q: Which types of footwear can benefit from Infinergy®?
Infinergy® is suitable for a wide range of footwear categories, including performance running shoes, athletic footwear, athleisure shoes, casual footwear, safety footwear, and lifestyle products. BASF also supports applications beyond footwear, such as sports equipment and other comfort-focused consumer products.
Q: Is Infinergy® a sustainable and recyclable material?
Yes. Infinergy® is based on TPU technology and is fully recyclable. BASF also offers solutions that incorporate renewable raw materials and supports manufacturing processes designed to reduce environmental impact. These features help footwear brands advance their sustainability and circular economy objectives.
Q: How does Infinergy® perform in extreme temperatures?
Infinergy® maintains its elasticity, cushioning, and functional performance across a wide temperature range. It performs reliably in cold winter conditions as well as in hot summer environments, helping ensure consistent comfort and durability throughout the year.