BASF announced that it has started commercial production of flame-retardant thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) at its facility in Shanghai, China. Materials produced under the company’s Elastollan brand are expected to begin shipping to the market starting this month.
The new production capacity focuses on high-performance and safety-critical applications such as industrial automation systems, robotic equipment, and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.
Flame-Retardant TPU Portfolio Expanded
This move follows BASF’s 2023 localization of its halogen-free flame-retardant (FHF) TPU series for customers in the Asia-Pacific region.
With the introduction of the new FR (Flame Retardant) TPU series, the company aims to deliver enhanced flame-retardant performance designed for more demanding application conditions.
Producing both the FHF and FR series locally enables BASF to provide a broader portfolio of solutions for customers in the cable sector. These materials will help industries such as:
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Industrial automation
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Robotics systems
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Electric vehicle charging cables
meet local regulatory requirements while addressing specialized flame-retardant needs more quickly and efficiently.
BASF: We Will Respond Faster to Regional Markets
Rohit Roop Ghosh, Vice President of Business Management TPU, Performance Materials Asia Pacific at BASF, highlighted the strategic importance of local production.
Commenting on the development, Ghosh said:
“Local production of FR grades that combine superior flame-retardant efficiency with excellent mechanical performance enables us to respond much faster to the specific technical requirements of regional markets. It will also strengthen our competitive position not only in cable applications, but also in specialty tube, hose, and belt segments moving forward.”
