Lubrizol Unveils New ESTANE BCX TPU for Foamed Midsoles

Lubrizol has announced the launch of new grades of ESTANE® BCX TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), designed specifically for physical foam solutions in midsoles. These innovative materials—ESTANE BCX AM and ESTANE BCX HS—were developed in collaboration with leading machinery manufacturers and foaming processors. They are tailored for both melt- and solid-state physical foaming processes and are available in aromatic and aliphatic HDI TPU chemistries.

Physical foaming, which utilizes physical blowing agents such as supercritical fluid (SCF), offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chemical foaming while maintaining high-performance standards. This method supports automated production of midsoles, resulting in improved manufacturing efficiency, consistent quality, and reliable performance. The introduction of these new TPU solutions reflects Lubrizol’s ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability in the footwear industry.

Midsoles produced with the new ESTANE BCX TPUs can achieve densities as low as 0.12 g/cm³, vertical rebound up to 75%, enhanced energy return, and improved long-term performance compared to average performance foams. These properties are critical in delivering optimal comfort and support for athletes and everyday users alike.

The use of SCF in the injection foaming process also significantly reduces the environmental impact of midsole production. Additionally, the resulting midsoles are more easily recyclable at the end of their life cycle, aligning with increasing consumer demand for sustainable and high-performance footwear solutions.

The increasing adoption of physical foaming technology in the footwear market calls for more advanced thermoplastic materials solutions. Our new ESTANE BCX TPU products represent a remarkable advancement in footwear midsole design. Our broadened capabilities and collaboration with machinery companies and processors have enabled the value chain to deliver more innovations to the market.

The new ESTANE BCX TPU products mark a significant advancement in footwear midsole design. Through expanded capabilities and close collaboration with machinery manufacturers and processors, Lubrizol has empowered the value chain to bring greater innovation and performance to the market.

Source: The Lubrizol Corporation