DSM, Sympatex link to launch mass-balanced bio-TPEs

Geleen, The Netherlands – DSM Engineering Materials has teamed up with membrane manufacturer Sympatex Technologies to launch mass-balanced bio-based versions of the polymer maker’s Arnitel thermoplastic elastomers.

Sympatex uses the TPEs which are based on polyether-polyester block copolymers, in its waterproof, windproof, and breathable membranes for sports applications. 

DSM’s bio-based TPE is manufactured with bio-based feedstock using a mass-balance approach, in which the flow of materials is carefully tracked through entire, often complex, value-chains. 

The new materials are said to contain more than 25% bio-based content by weight, according to a 5 Feb press statement from parent group Royal DSM. 

The collaboration, it said, responds to increasing consumer and legislative demands for lower carbon footprint and sustainability in the sports and apparel sector.

The bio-based feedstock, added DSM, will maintain the functional properties of Arnitel and enable Sympatex to offer more sustainable products without having to requalify materials.

“By working with our partners across the value chain, we’ll keep driving sustainability in our industry to new levels and contribute to delivering a better future,” said Shruti Singhal, president DSM Engineering Materials.

Likewise, Sympatex CEO Dr. Rüdiger Fox stated: “Partnerships such as ours with DSM accelerate the progress of our collective journey to a more sustainable world. Everyone in the value chain is benefiting, from suppliers to our customers and sports brands.”