New Teknor Apex TPE includes "world-first" bioplastics

Pawtucket, Rhode Island - Teknor Apex has introduced a new thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) incorporating a patented plastics substitute - called UBQ - converted entirely from organic and unrecyclable waste. 

The new Monprene TPE is made with 35% sustainable content that includes post-consumer recycled material as well as the novel bio-based plastics from UBQ Materials Ltd, Teknor Apex announced 31 Jan. 

This new Monprene TPE, which is initially available in 70 Shore A and coloured black, is said to perform and process like a standard TPE and offer good anti-slip and comfort-grip properties. 

Designed specifically for injection moulding or over-moulding onto PP, target applications include consumer products such as hand and power tools, electronic devices and appliances.

According to Teknor Apex, UBQ has already been adopted by leading industry brands for use in durable products with reduced environmental footprints. 

As a result of increasing demand, added the TPE supplier, UBQ Materials is to open a new 80 kilotonnes per annum facility in The Netherlands.

According to Teknor Apex, Israel-based UBQ Materials has patented “the world’s first bio-based thermoplastic made entirely of unsorted household waste, including all the organics.”

The material is produced via an advanced conversion technology to “divert municipal solid waste from landfills and convert it into a sustainable substitute for oil-based plastics.” 

The Teknor Apex release lists UBQ Materials’ customers as including Mercedes-Benz, Mainetti, PepsiCo, and Arcos Dorados, a major franchisee of McDonald’s restaurants.