Novoloop Launches TPU for Premium Outsoles

Novoloop has introduced a thermoplastic polyurethane that is part of the "next generation" and is specifically engineered for the outsoles of high-performance footwear in California, U.S. The company stated that the new grade was created to integrate recycled content with the abrasion resistance and grip necessary for high-performance footwear.

The material is an outsole-grade TPU with 42% post-consumer circular content. It has a dry coefficient of friction of 1.4 and a wet coefficient of friction of 1.12, and it provides a 16mm³ DIN abrasion loss. According to Novoloop, the grade builds upon the Lifecycled AR67A v1 that was previously utilised in the outsole of On's Cloudprime shoe.

The company asserts that the TPU can be processed through injection moulding, extrusion, and compression moulding, enabling footwear manufacturers to employ more straightforward production routes compared to cast PU or rubber compounding and vulcanisation. It further stated that the material is capable of supporting low-to-zero waste manufacturing, as injection moulding and extrusion scrap can be reground and repurposed.

Lifecycled AR67A v2 represents a major step forward for sustainable footwear materials, setting a new benchmark for both circular content and abrasion performance, the company said.

It stated that AR67A v2 provides a reduction in CO2-equivalent emissions of up to 41% when contrasted with virgin TPU. The company has positioned the grade as a material that can compete with conventional outsole materials in terms of sustainability and performance in its launch materials. It was stated that the wear resistance of the outsole is maintained for demanding sports and outdoor applications, while the flexibility of TPU enables a thinner, lighter outsole construction.

Source: Novoloop