LAPP uses new bio-based plastic from BASF – Organic ETHERLINE® now available too

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 additionally available as a more sustainable variant. For this cable, the global market leader for integrated solutions in the field of cable and connection technology has replaced the TPU sheath 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 raw 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,” says Alexander Terpe, Head of Cable Product Development at U.I. Lapp GmbH.

Sustainability begins with more sustainable products

The bio-based plastic in question is Elastollan^® N, the thermoplastic polyurethane from BASF. It is a corn-based biopolymer. Depending on the type of TPU, the proportion of renewable raw material is 45 to 60%. The highlight, the TPU offers the same durability, flexibility and mechanical properties as well as the hydrolysis, chemical and UV resistance as conventional Elastollan^®. Even the processability parameters are retained. A special feature is that the proportion of biomaterial in the finished product can actually not only be detected, but precisely measured (according to ASTM D 6866).

"BASF’s bio-based TPU is a true high performer and is in no way inferior to conventional fossil fuel. A quick changeover in production is possible and the right step to bring our customer real added value through a more sustainable product," explains Oliver Mühren, Group Manager Sales at BASF Polyurethanes GmbH.

Looking at the life cycle assessment, the bio-based product achieves an improvement in CO2 footprint of approximately 15%. And so, it is the logical consequence that the Elastollan® N is part of BASF’s circular economy strategy and contributes to saving fossil resources and CO2 emissions. LAPP is also aiming, step by step, to further expand its portfolio of bio-based sheath materials.

About LAPP

Headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, LAPP is a leading supplier of integrated solutions and branded products in the field of cable and connection technology. The company’s portfolio includes standard and highly flexible cables, industrial connectors and screw technology, customised system solutions, automation technology and robotics solutions for the intelligent factory of the future, as well as technical accessories. LAPP’s core market is in the industrial machinery and plant engineering sector. Other key markets are in the food industry, logistics, as well as the energy and the mobility sector.

The company was founded in 1959 and is still fully owned by the founding family to this day. In the 2021/22 financial year, it generated a consolidated turnover of EUR 1,864 million. LAPP (including its non-consolidated companies) currently employs approximately 5,055 people across the world, produces at 19 international sites and has over 41 sales companies. LAPP also cooperates with around 100 international offices. www.lapp.com