Teknor Apex rolls out Monprene S3 CP-15170 BLK, an eco-conscious thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) made with 35% sustainable content that includes UBQ and post-consumer recycled material.

UBQ is a sustainable plastic substitute converted entirely from organic and unrecyclable waste. Bio-based and highly recyclable, it offers a climate-positive solution towards a circular economy.

By replacing oil-based raw materials with UBQ in TPE formulations, Teknor Apex is helping to address the global waste crisis, preserving finite natural resources, and reducing the carbon footprint of end products which utilize its TPE.

This new Monprene TPE is initially available in 70 Shore A and is colored black. It performs and processes comparable to its standard TPE offset. The durometer and amount of sustainable content can be customized based on end use requirements. 

Teknor Apex rolls out Monprene S3 CP-15170 BLK, a TPE made with 35% sustainable content that includes UBQ and PCR material.

This high flow TPE is designed specifically for injection molding or overmolding onto PP and is suitable for consumer product applications requiring flexibility. It combines the performance of thermoset rubber with the processability of a thermoplastic and can still be recycled. 

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. Demand for UBQ continues to build globally, as companies work to reach carbon reduction commitments in the production of end-products.

Teknor Apex has been an early adopter of UBQ, paving the way for other materials companies to develop more sustainable products within a circular economy.

As a result of increasing demand, UBQ Materials will open a new facility in the Netherlands with an annual production output of 80,000 tons of UBQ, further bridging the gap between the global ecosystems of waste and materials.

“We are excited to further develop our partnership to include UBQ in our latest line of sustainable TPE. This new product enables sustainable product design and reduces dependency on virgin petroleum-based plastic,” shared Jonathan Plisco, New Business Development Manager of Teknor Apex.

“Teknor Apex’s implementation of our bio-based thermoplastic into its product lines strengthens our shared commitment to reshape how things are made and improve the footprint of everyday products,” said Derek Schaefer, VP of Business Development, UBQ North America.