The Comfort of Lightness and Softness

The Comfort of Lightness and Softness has Come to Your Feet! There is an estimated 45% increase foreseen in the global footwear market between 2020 and 2027 [1]. Superior properties of polyurethane and growth in shoe sole sales are the two main parameters directing the polyurethane market. Growth in the market increases product diversity and directs expectations of the polyurethane market towards lower densities. Several reasons for this momentum include the cost advantage for slipper and sole manufacturers, the comfort of the end user, and the need to reduce the amount of plastic waste released into the environment. There are products with mold density in the range of 22–25 DN (220–250 kg/m³), which can operate without any problems in the sector. However, to maintain their dimensional stability, these products were developed with high hardness. For this reason, they cannot provide the necessary comfort. The development of formulations for lower density soles without compromising comfort properties such as softness and flexibility has led to new research in polyurethane chemistry. As Flokser Kimya, we have presented two soft and light systems with different hardness values to the market. The working conditions and physical properties of our slipper products, which have soft and flexible properties and achieve insole densities between 20–23 DN (200–230 kg/m³) molded densities, are given in Table 1. Compared to low density products on the market, our developed products ensure 40–48 Shore A low hardness values combined with necessary comfort and softness. Additionally, our product will operate with 25% less polyurethane consumption, creating an advantage for our customers. Along with softness and comfort, producers will have cost advantages through decreased polyurethane consumption and will contribute to the environment through lower levels of polymer waste. Within the scope of our sustainability principle, we will continue to develop new products by emphasizing the development of environmentally friendly technologies. To the future with new systems that Flokser Kimya will develop beyond expectations!   References [1] https://www.statista.com/statistics/976367/footwear-market-size-worldwide/   Tibet Hüten - Product Development Researcher Flokser Kimya Kerim Can Ünlü - Product Development Executive Flokser Kimya Kübra Sarper - Product Development Specialist Flokser Kimya Dr. Serpil Yılmaztürk Güney - Product Development Manager Flokser Kimya