Covestro launches advanced TPU for supercritical fluid foaming technology
Covestro has announced the launch of Desmopan FLY, an advanced Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) series specifically engineered for supercritical fluid (SCF) foaming technology, addressing the growing demand for lightweight, performance, and sustainable footwear design while expanding possibilities across sport gears, furniture and electronic products.
Desmopan FLY enables uniform fine-cell foams with superior cushioning, energy return, and lasting comfort for footwear midsoles.
Desmopan FLY features an advanced formulation that enables superior supercritical fluid dispersion during the molding process, resulting in uniform fine-cell structured foams with outstanding mechanical properties.
For footwear applications, this translates into midsoles with superior cushioning and energy return properties, and long-lasting comfort performance. The absence of chemical blowing agents and crosslinking additives ensures recyclability of the midsole; when combined with soft TPU outsole, the whole sole system supports circular economy initiatives.
In a pioneering industry move, Covestro has installed the advanced SCF injection foaming system at its TPU Asia-Pacific R&D Center in Taiwan, China. This state-of-the-art facility enables Covestro to provide comprehensive R&D support and rapid application services for customers’ specific requirements, demonstrating Covestro’s ongoing commitment to advancing footwear material solutions and supporting the industry’s evolution.
The combination of SCF foaming technology and Desmopan FLY delivers an energy-efficient manufacturing process that reduces the overall carbon footprint. The automated injection process integrates multiple components in a single step, enabling substantial production efficiency while maintaining consistent, high-quality output.
Desmopan FLY is now commercially available, supported by Covestro’s comprehensive technical expertise and advanced in-house facilities. This integrated material and technology platform empowers sports brands in their journey toward advanced footwear solutions, combining performance, sustainability and production efficiency.
