This is also a goal that LAPP and BASF have set themselves. Both companies want their products to help reduce the carbon footprint. An important component is the use of bio-based plastics. LAPP has now unveiled the first Ethernet cable with a bio-based sheathing. The compound was developed by the chemical company BASF.
The ETHERLINE® FD P Cat.5e for Industrial Ethernet has in fact been part of the LAPP portfolio for a long time now. It is ideal for patch cable applications and also for cable chains. Now, however, it is available as an additional sustainable variant. For this cable, the global market leader for integrated solutions in the field of cable and connectivity technology has replaced the TPU jacket material (thermoplastic polyurethane) from BASF – previously based on fossil raw materials – with a TPU from BASF that is based on renewable raw materials. “Using plastics from rapidly renewable materials with an organic basis is a great way for us to reduce the need for plastics from fossil raw materials and at the same time reduce the carbon footprint of our products,” said Alexander Terpe, Head of Cable Product Development at U.I. Lapp GmbH.
Sustainability begins with sustainable products
The bio-based plastic in question is Elastollan® N, the thermoplastic polyurethane from BASF. It is a biopolymer based on corn. Depending on the type of TPU, the proportion of renewable raw materials is 45 to 60%. The highlight is that the TPU offers the same durability, flexibility, mechanical properties and resistance to hydrolysis, chemicals and UV radiation as conventional Elastollan®. Even the processability parameters are preserved. What is particularly noteworthy is that the proportion of organic material in the finished product can not only be verified, but can also be measured precisely (according to ASTM D 6866). “The bio-based TPU from BASF is a real high performer and is second to none compared to conventional fossil materials. Production can be switched over quickly, and this is the right step to bring genuine added value to our customers through a sustainable product,” explains Oliver Mühren, Group Manager of Sales at BASF Polyurethanes GmbH.
Taking a look at the environmental impact, the bio-based product achieves an improvement in the carbon footprint of around 15%. The logical consequence is that the Elastollan® N is part of BASF’s circular economy strategy and contributes to saving fossil resources and reducing CO2 emissions. LAPP is also aiming, step by step, to further expand its portfolio of bio-based sheath materials.