Bayer MaterialScience develops “green shoe” concept
Germany-based Bayer MaterialScience has developed a unique concept for what it calls a “green shoe” that uses a number of sustainable materials and technologies. These include polyurethane (PU) raw materials based on natural resources, products for solvent-free coatings and adhesives, and a polycarbonate blend and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) based on renewable resources. Up to 90% of all components in the ‘Ecotrekker’ concept shoe can be given eco-compatible properties by using the company’s products, Bayer Material Science claims.
Another element of the green shoe concept are microcellular polyurethane elastomer systems for outer soles and midsoles, in which the proportion of renewable raw materials is as high as 70%.
The firm claims its green concept also offers health and safety benefits for shoe manufacturers. The waterborne coating and adhesive products are solvent-free and the polyurethane products used do not contain any heavy metals.
TPU films from the Dureflex range from Bayer MaterialScience form a vapor-permeable membrane to reinforce the inner sole, without using plasticizers.
Several years ago the company opened a global footwear competence centre in Shanghai which is equipped with facilities for footwear applications. The centre develops innovative materials and technologies for the shoe industry. The concept shoe was developed there in close collaboration with the Simple Factory Group.
