Applications of Bio-based Polyester Elastomer1 in Industrial Manufacturing

Bio-based Polyester Elastomer1, manufactured in-house by our team, enables advancement in multiple precise industrial sectors relying on renewable, high-performance polymer materials. The following applications demonstrate its adoption with clear downstream standards, operational ratios, and specific processing practices.

1. Automotive Interior Parts

Automotive makers use this material in manufacturing flexible components such as instrument panel skins, airbag covers, and door trims. Its controlled modulus and temperature resistance supports part durability, tactile comfort, and compliance with demanding in-cabin emission limits. Consistency in polymer architecture allows for thin-wall molding, supporting lightweight construction goals.

Industry compliance standards

• ISO 9001 Quality Management for automotive supply
• IATF 16949 Automotive Quality Standards
• VDA 278 for VOC and fogging emissions
• OEM-specific interior part approval (VW TL 50180, Ford WSS-M99P32-C3, etc.)

Typical usage ratio

• 40–100 wt% in skin layers; adjusted depending on blend with thermoplastic polyolefins or fillers for cost and performance optimization

Downstream process integration

• Directly extruded or injection molded into sheet or part geometries
• Compounders combine with masterbatch colorants and additives before final shaping
• Bonding to rigid substrates with adhesives or by overmolding

Final product types

• Instrument panels (IP) upper skins
• Door panel soft-touch inserts
• Airbag covers with controlled tear properties
• Console trim and glove box covers

2. Footwear Midsoles and Outsoles

Leading footwear OEMs incorporate this elastomer for midsoles, outsoles, and cushioning inserts, particularly in sustainable sport, hiking, and children’s shoes. The polymer’s resilience and consistent rebound support long-term comfort while maintaining mechanical integrity under repeated loading. Bio-based content improves marketing and regulatory acceptance in brands focusing on lower carbon material inputs.

Industry compliance standards

• ISO 14001 Environmental Management
• OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 for textile and leather safety
• REACH Annex XVII Compliance (phthalates, PAHs, etc.)
• US California Proposition 65 for restricted substances

Typical usage ratio

• 60–100 wt% in foamed midsole compounds
• Up to 30 wt% blended with EVA or PU resins for enhanced processability or reduced material cost

Downstream process integration

• Blended with blowing agents during compounding for foamed structures
• Injection or compression molded into outsole or midsole forms
• Adhesively laminated with textile uppers in assembly lines

Final product types

• Athletic footwear midsoles
• Sandals and children’s shoes outsoles
• Technical insoles and cushioning pads
• Safety shoe impact-absorbing soles

3. Wire & Cable Sheathing

Specialty cable manufacturers use this elastomer as a bio-derived sheath layer in low- and medium-voltage power cables, automotive wiring, and communication cords. The polymer’s flexibility, flame retardancy when compounded, and low smoke properties enable compliance with evolving environmental and electrical safety codes. Integration supports durable mechanical protection while reducing fossil-based content in the jacket material.

Industry compliance standards

• RoHS Directive (2011/65/EU) for restricted substances
• IEC 60332 and UL 1581 for flame retardancy and vertical burn
• EN 50267 (Halogen-Free, Low Smoke)
• ISO 6722 for automotive cable requirements

Typical usage ratio

• 70–100 wt% in primary sheathing; reduced if combined with flame retardant masterbatches or UV stabilizers

Downstream process integration

• Compounders mix with stabilizers, flame retardants, and process aids before pelletizing
• Extrusion onto conductor cores as primary or secondary sheathing
• Continuous line vulcanization or water cooling for shape setting

Final product types

• Data communication cables (CAT6, USB, HDMI)
• Low-voltage building wires
• Automotive lead wires and harnesses
• Consumer appliance cord sets

4. Medical Device Soft Components

Medical OEMs employ this elastomer in non-implantable soft device parts where compliance with global biocompatibility guidelines is critical. Its consistent purity, low extractables, and irradiation stability support manufacturing of flexible housings, seals, and hand grips. The renewable carbon content aligns with sustainable procurement initiatives among health sector customers, provided full traceability and lot-level documentation.

Industry compliance standards

• ISO 10993-5/-10 for cytotoxicity and irritation
• USP Class VI for systemic toxicity
• 21 CFR 177.2600 (FDA) elastomeric compositions for food and medical use
• ISO 13485 Quality Management Systems for Medical Devices

Typical usage ratio

• 90–100 wt% for molded devices contacting skin or fluids
• Possible blending with medical-grade thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) up to 30 wt% if increased tear strength required

Downstream process integration

• Pelletized granules undergo melt filtration before medical molding
• Injection molding under GMP class cleanroom conditions
• Gamma, steam, or ETO sterilization validated for final articles

Final product types

• Surgical device handles and grips
• Respiratory mask soft flanges
• Fluid transfer connector gaskets
• Catheter strain relief boots

5. Consumer Electronics Flexible Covers

Manufacturers of wearable tech and portable electronics specify this elastomer for cases, wristbands, and flexible frames due to its consistent elasticity, oil resistance, and skin contact safety. The polymer supports precise overmolding on polycarbonate and ABS housings, allowing intricate design features while meeting leading OEM substance restrictions. Its bio-based origin assists customers in achieving sustainability labeling requirements without compromising product performance or longevity.

Industry compliance standards

• IEC 62321 for hazardous substance analysis (RoHS)
• EN 1811 for skin contact nickel release
• ISO 8124-3 for toy and consumer electronics chemical safety (applicable to children’s devices)
• REACH Annex XVII (PAH and phthalate limits)

Typical usage ratio

• 80–100 wt% for single-shot overmolding onto electronic substrates

Downstream process integration

• Direct overmolding onto rigid frames in multi-shot injection cycles
• Color compounded with UV stabilizers or antimicrobial masterbatches at pre-processing stage
• Laser marking or texture addition in post-mold finishing

Final product types

• Smartphone protective bumper cases
• Smartwatch and fitness tracker bands
• Earbud charging case covers
• Tablet and portable device corner guards