Sustainability and design standards in automotive interiors are undergoing a radical shift. Wacoal and BASF have successfully expanded Wacoal’s proprietary 3D fiber molding technology, Melooop, into the automotive industry through an innovative armrest concept model.
By eliminating the multi-layer assembly traditionally required for interior parts, this cross-industry alliance aims to redefine cabin comfort and performance.
Adhesive-Free Manufacturing via Melooop Process
Utilizing a melt-blown nonwoven process, Melooop technology forms and layers fibers simultaneously. This advanced approach enables complex 3D structures to be created in a single, integrated step without the use of adhesives.
By simplifying the production chain, this method significantly reduces manufacturing steps and minimizes material waste. Crucially, it unlocks the potential for mono-material designs, meaning components can be easily recycled at the end of their lifecycle. Furthermore, designers can adjust thickness and density early in development to perfectly balance weight and component durability.
Industrial Performance Enabled by Elastollan® TPU
On the material side, BASF’s premium Elastollan® TPU drives the innovation. Combining thermoplastic processability with elastomer performance, this material solution delivers vital benefits for occupant-contact surfaces:
Dimensional Stability: Exhibits excellent elastic recovery under repeated loading, ensuring the component retains its shape over long-term use.
Soft-Touch Comfort: Provides the premium, tactile soft-touch surface required for modern vehicle interiors without compromising mechanical strength.
Enhanced Recyclability: The adhesive-free, mono-material structure simplifies disassembly and processing, directly supporting circular economy goals.
The innovative armrest concept model generated significant interest among automotive OEMs and industrial engineers when it was presented at the BASF booth during the Automotive Engineering Expo Nagoya in mid-June 2026.
