BASF Launches Haptex® 4.0: The Future of Sustainable Synthetic Leather

BASF introduces a significant leap in sustainable synthetic leather with Haptex® 4.0. This next-generation Polyurethane solution enables the creation of 100% recyclable synthetic leather. Through a novel formulation and recycling process, Haptex® 4.0 eliminates the need for separating layers, allowing for the co-recycling of the material alongside Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) fabric. This breakthrough simplifies the recycling process and paves the way for a more circular future in synthetic leather production.

The industry has long grappled with the challenge of recycling or reusing end-of-life synthetic leather due to its composite structure of various raw materials such as Polyurethanes (PU) and PET. The high bonding strength between these layers has historically complicated the separation process. Traditionally, the difficulty in breaking down these bonded layers has posed significant obstacles to recycling efforts, leading to increased waste and environmental concerns. However, Haptex 4.0 addresses this issue with its enhanced recyclability. By facilitating easier separation of its components, Haptex 4.0 enables more efficient recycling and reuse of synthetic leather materials. This innovation eliminates waste residue and promotes a more sustainable manufacturing approach. Manufacturers can now reduce their environmental footprint and adhere to increasingly stringent regulatory requirements while meeting consumer demand for eco-friendly products.

Like its predecessors, Haptex 4.0 adheres to strict Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) standards, utilizing no organic solvents in production. By eliminating the need for harmful solvents, Haptex 4.0 ensures a safer and more environmentally friendly production environment. This innovation also results in a cleaner final product, reducing potential health risks for end-users. Additionally, the absence of organic solvents in the manufacturing process significantly streamlines and accelerates the synthetic leather production process

Haptex 4.0 not only boasts significant environmental benefits but also stands out for its affordability and durability, making it a versatile solution for various applications. Extensive testing has confirmed Haptex 4.0’s superior anti-yellowing properties, heat resistance, and robustness under autoclave conditions. Whether used in footwear, fashion, automotive interiors, or furniture, Haptex 4.0 delivers exceptional quality and longevity, offering consumers a reliable and cost-effective alternative to traditional leather without sacrificing performance or cost.

Silvia Mok, Vice President of Business Management Polyurethanes Systems, Performance Materials Asia Pacific at BASF, stated that Haptex 4.0 represents a technical breakthrough and aligns with BASF's dedication to advancing circular economy principles and promoting the use of recyclable materials across various industries. She emphasized that with Haptex 4.0, BASF is setting a new benchmark by providing customers with sustainable, high-performance, and durable materials, thus facilitating their green transformation.

Since its initial launch in 2013, the first generation of Haptex has gained widespread adoption across diverse industries, including automotive, apparel, footwear, and furniture.