Teknor Apex raises recycled content in TPEs to 60%

Pawtucket, Rhod Island – US compounder Teknor Apex has launched a new series of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), containing 60% post-consumer recycled content.

The Monprene R6 CP-10100 series also has an ‘optimised’ formulation for achieving a minimum carbon footprint, said Teknor 12 Sept.

For instance, the 70 Shore A grade of the TPE offers a reduction of 36% in CO2e/kg compared to a fossil-based TPE of similar hardness.

Produced at Teknor Apex’s manufacturing plant in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany, the TPE is available in standard grades from 40 to 70 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.

Fully recyclable at the end of life, the materials are claimed to maintain the translucency and colour of their virgin TPE counterparts.

The elastomers are suitable for applications in sporting goods, lawn and garden, consumer electronics, appliances and personal care.

The new offering is an important part of Teknor Apex’s sustainability programme, according to Chris Smith, market manager.

According to Smith, the German plant where the TPE is being produced has been converted to “100% renewable energy and reduced water usage by more than 50%,” this year.

The site is also currently undergoing RecyClass certification to ensure full traceability.