LyondellBasell & exoIQ team up to advance materials for wearable back exoskeleton
By: ICN Bureau
Last updated : October 13, 2026 4:59 pm
The portfolio combines glass fiber-reinforced polyamide for mechanical strength and dimensional stability
LyondellBasell is joining forces with exoIQ to advance material solutions for the B900 active back exoskeleton, a wearable system designed to support workers during physically demanding activities.
The collaboration brings together LYB’s expertise in Advanced Polymer Solutions and Olefins and Polyolefins to deliver an integrated materials portfolio tailored to the exoskeleton’s structural, functional and aesthetic requirements.
The portfolio combines glass fiber-reinforced polyamide for mechanical strength and dimensional stability, polypropylene for impact resistance, processability and lightweight design, and masterbatch solutions for consistent color and appearance.
“This collaboration demonstrates the value of bringing together materials and expertise from across LYB,” said Frank Noeltgen, vice president of Advanced Polymer Solutions Europe at LYB. “By working closely with exoIQ, we deliver an integrated solution that meets the application’s structural, performance and design requirements. The collaboration reinforces our role as a trusted innovator and full solutions provider.”
The B900 active back exoskeleton is designed to support users during tasks such as lifting, carrying and working in forward-leaning positions. By helping reduce physical strain and effort, the wearable system aims to make demanding everyday work more manageable for employees in logistics, manufacturing and skilled trades.
Material performance is critical to achieving that balance of support, durability and comfort without adding unnecessary weight.
“The B900 requires materials that balance strength, durability, lightweight performance and design,” said Bernward Otten, founder and managing director, exoIQ. “The breadth of the LYB portfolio and the team’s material innovation approach help us identify complementary solutions for different components of the system.”
The partnership highlights LYB’s approach to combining capabilities across its businesses to address specific customer requirements. Rather than focusing on individual materials in isolation, the collaboration brings complementary solutions together to support the performance and design of the complete application.
By aligning material expertise with exoIQ’s product requirements, the companies aim to deliver an integrated solution for a wearable system built to meet the demands of physically intensive work.