LAPP and BASF are working together. Both companies want their products to help reduce the carbon footprint. An important component is the use of bio-based plastics. LAPP will now be presenting the first Ethernet cable with a bio-based sheathing at the Hannover Messe. The compound was developed by the chemical company BASF.

The ETHERLINE FD P Cat.5e for Industrial Ethernet has in fact been part of the LAPP portfolio for a long time now. It is ideal for patch cable applications and also for cable chains. Now, however, it is additionally available as a more sustainable variant.

The bio-based plastic in question is Elastollan N, the thermoplastic polyurethane from BASF. It is a corn-based biopolymer. Depending on the type of TPU, the proportion of renewable raw material is 45 to 60%. The highlight, the TPU offers the same durability, flexibility and mechanical properties as well as the hydrolysis, chemical and UV resistance as conventional Elastollan.

"BASF's bio-based TPU is a true high performer and is in no way inferior to conventional fossil fuel. A quick changeover in production is possible and the right step to bring our customer real added value through a more sustainable product," explains Oliver Mühren, Group Manager Sales at BASF Polyurethanes GmbH.

Looking at the life cycle assessment, the bio-based product achieves an improvement in CO2 footprint of approximately 15%.