The World's First Expanded Thermoplastic Polyurethane (E-TPU)
Global
Performance Polymers
Global
Performance Polymers
Infinergy® ‒ Small Beads, Big Possibilities
Infinergy® is the world’s first expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (E-TPU). The closed-cell, elastic particle foam combines the properties of TPU with the advantages of foams, making it as elastic as rubber but lighter.
The elastic particle foam Infinergy® can be used anywhere, where a combination of low weight, excellent mechanical properties, and long-term durability is needed. Infinergy® panels can be processed on standard slitting lines, die cutting and water-jet cutting machines.
Properties
Comparison of the rebound of different foams
[Molding density: 30 kg/m3 and 265 kg/m3 (Infinergy®)]
Like its starting material TPU, Infinergy® is noted for having high elongation at break, tensile strength and abrasion resistance as well as good chemical resistance. In addition, the innovative particle foam remains highly elastic and soft over a wide temperature range.
The feature of Infinergy® that is particularly striking is its high resilience. Tests of the resilience elasticity under ISO 8307 (the ball rebound test) and under DIN 53512 (using a defined pendulum hammer) show that Infinergy® achieves a rebound of over 55%. This is therefore significantly higher than comparable particle foams such as expanded polypropylene (EPP) at 30%, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) at 37% or expanded polyethylene (EPE) at 50%. Infinergy® does not lose its excellent resilience even under a continuous load.
Dynamic mechanical analysis has shown that, even at extremely low temperatures of -20°C (-4°F), Infinergy® still has a low dynamic modulus, is very soft and stretchy and thus does not go stiff.
Elastic Even Under Continuous Load and over Wide Temperature Range
High-frequency fatigue test:
- Dynamic loads of 250 kPa and 5 cycles/second
- Thickness of the test piece after 40,000 cycles:
EPE: 22 percent (9 mm), Infinergy®: 93 percent (37 mm) - Density: 30 kg/m³ (EPE), 265 kg/m³ (Infinergy®)
--> Dynamic mechanical analysis: Infinergy® stays elastic up to minus 20°C.
Applications
Processing
In principle, Infinergy® can be processed on the same molding machines which are designed for processing of expanded polypropylene (EPP). A steam chamber pressure of at least 5 bar is necessary. During processing, the steam pressures are usually in the range of 1.6 to 2.2 bar, depending on the geometry and density of the molding. Both crack splitting and pressure filling are possible methods that can be applied here. Appropriate injection systems should be used.
In addition, because polyurethane binders adhere so well to Infinergy®, there are other processing techniques such as gluing and foam sealing of the beads. This procedure enables large-scale processing of Infinergy®.
Converters can process panels made from Infinergy® on conventional splitting machines, punches and water jet cutting machines.
Environment and Recycling
Infinergy® is compliant with the RoHS directive and does not have to be labeled under dangerous goods regulations.
Information on other regulations, e. g. GADSL, will be provided on request.
Infinergy is also recyclable.
Contact us
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Featured News
Trade News
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October 8, 2019
New size, new color, new processing method – Infinergy® picks up the pace
Mini beads, black beads, bicycle saddles, tennis rackets, sports and fall-protection floors, safety footwear, luminous Infinergy® panels and lots more – at the BASF stand in hall 5, stand C21/D21, visitors will be able to experience the variety of innovations from Infinergy® inspired. Completely new Infinergy® applications are found in Vision Venture, the concept camper van from Hymer and BASF. Here, Infinergy® is the perfect fit – as a step, bed edge and as a comfort element in the slatted frame.
September 11, 2019
BASF receives top 10 “Sports Surfaces Materials Supplier” award in China
BASF has been awarded the Top 10 “Sports Surfaces Materials Supplier” by the Shanghai Chemical Building Material Trade Association (SCBMTA). The award recognizes BASF’s significant contribution towards upgrading industry standards of sports flooring with safer, higher-quality products.
Trade News
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August 13, 2019
Plymouth Foam to launch a new generation of pet toys at SuperZoo 2019 based on BASF Infinergy material
Plymouth Foam is launching its new line of dog toys under their AIREHIDE brand which uses BASF’s Infinergy material.
Trade News
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April 11, 2019
CHINAPLAS 2019: BASF introduces the Ren Chair, a concept wheelchair to help users achieve a more active lifestyle
At CHINAPLAS 2019, BASF will introduce for the first time the prototype of a concept wheelchair, the “Ren Chair,” co-created by Wheel-Line Co., Ltd, REHTO Design and BASF. Developed in direct consultation with wheelchair users, the Ren Chair combines bold design and style with high-performance materials from BASF, addressing wheelchair users’ needs for a safer, barrier-free experience.
September 27, 2018
Dunlop and BASF unleash the performance within tennis rackets
Modern day tennis players tend to play with more spin and as a result, hit the ball out of the top of the racket rather than the center. The disadvantage of this is players swing with more force to generate more power and spin. This puts extra load on the player’s arm and can result in injury.
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