Teknor Apex launches recycled content TPEs

Pawtucket, Rhode Island – Teknore Apex has unveiled a new series of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) with high post-consumer recycled content.

The Monprene RX CP-15100 series, containing 25 to 35% recycled content, has been formulated to promote circular economy while decreasing reliance on virgin fossil-based resources and energy, said Teknor Apex 23 March.

The TPEs, said the US compounder, are available globally and manufactured around the world with locally sourced raw materials "procured to exacting specifications."

Unlike competitive TPEs with recycled content which are only available in black, the materials are delivered in “a consistent light, natural colour, similar to their prime offsets.”

The TPEs are fully recyclable and are available in standard grades from 55 to 80 Shore A, and can also be tailored for a customer’s specific requirements.

The grades are designed for injection moulding applications, including overmoulding onto polypropylene.

According to Teknor, the materials perform and processes like prime TPE and are ideal for personal care products, lawn & garden tools, writing instruments, appliances, sporting goods and dunnage.

The PCR content, the company said, is sourced from waste diverted from households, or commercial, industrial and institutional facilities.

The materials are not intended for applications requiring food contact regulatory compliance.

The launch represents the first of several sustainable product launches slated for this year, according to Jonathan Plisco, new business development manager.

Additional products in the pipeline include other types of recycled content, bio-based raw materials, and carbon negative additives.

“We are actively collaborating with various partners in the supply chain, with continued growth in our portfolio,” he added.