Teknor Apex uses 'world's first' bio-based plastic substitute in new TPE

PAWTUCKET, R.I.—Custom compounder Teknor Apex Co. has launched a new eco-conscious Monprene thermoplastic elastomer that incorporates a "world's first" patented plastic substitute.

The Pawtucket-based private firm—in partnership with UBQ Materials Ltd., an Israeli climate technology company—has launched Monprene S3 CP-15170 BLK. The TPE is made with 35-percent sustainable content, including post-consumer recycled materials and what's known as UBQ, according to the company's Jan. 31 news release.

UBQ, "the world's first bio-based thermoplastic," is a plastic substitute that is produced through an "advanced conversion technology," using organic and unrecyclable waste, according to Teknor Apex. UBQ replaces oil-based materials and diverts municipal solid waste from landfills.

The material offers a "climate-positive solution" toward a circular economy due to its bio-based and highly recyclable properties, it added, noting it helps the company reduce its carbon footprint and address the global waste crisis.

The new Monprene TPE, initially available in 70 Shore A, is a high flow TPE designed for injection molding or overmolding and offers anti-slip and comfort-grip properties. It is colored black, performs and processes comparable to standard TPE, and the durometer and sustainable content can be customized based on end use requirements, according to Teknor Apex.

"UBQ is a novel worldwide patented material that has already been adopted by leading industry brands and enterprises for manufacturing durable products with reduced environmental footprints," Teknor Apex said, noting demand for the material is building globally as companies strive to reduce their carbon footprints.

UBQ's customers include companies like Mercedes-Benz, Mainetti, PepsiCo and Arcos Dorados, a franchisee of McDonalds, according to the press release.

As a result of this increasing demand, the company said, UBQ Materials plans to open a new facility in the Netherlands that will have an annual production output of 80,000 tons.

Jonathan Plisco, new business development manager at Teknor Apex, said the company is "excited" to further its partnership with UBQ and the development of sustainable TPE.

"This new product enables sustainable product design and reduces dependency on virgin petroleum-based plastic," he said. "In the race to meet market demand for environmentally conscious materials, we are proud to offer new sustainable options that provide the right balance of performance, manufacturability and economics."

Derek Schaefer, vice president of business development at UBQ North America, said the partnership with Teknor Apex strengthens UBQ's commitment to improving the carbon footprint of everyday products.

"We all have a role to play in reducing methane emissions," Schaefer said. "Through this new 'Made with UBQ' product line, manufacturers have the ability to contribute to a truly circular economy where human consumption lives in harmony with the planet."