Nouryon announced the launch of Expancel® WB microspheres, an innovation in expandable microspheres for white shoe sole applications in the clothing and apparel industry at the 2024 Chinaplas exhibition in Shanghai, China. White shoe soles are in increasing demand by shoe manufacturers to meet strong consumer interest without compromising on performance or comfort.
Expancel® microspheres consist of a polymer shell that encapsulates a gas. When heated, the gas expands allowing the microspheres to be used as a lightweight filler and blowing agent to obtain different surface effects and make end products lighter, which reduces costs and environmental impact.
"The ability to produce lightweight solutions for our key markets presents tremendous growth opportunities for Nouryon as our customers increasingly focus on implementing more sustainable solutions," said Sylvia Winkel-Pettersson, Vice President Engineered Polymers at Nouryon. "Our clothing and apparel customers are looking for innovations that address multiple technical requirements in a single product, and we are proud to support them with a solution that not only improves the whiteness, elasticity and foam stability of shoe soles, but also helps to reduce carbon emissions."
Expancel® WB microspheres can be used in footwear applications to reduce weight and provide a whiter color for shoe soles compared to alternative grades of Expancel® microspheres. These benefits are achieved without sacrificing its exceptional low density, uniform and closed cell structure, and superior flexibility.
Nouryon is constantly adapting and innovating its portfolio to meet customer and market needs. The new Expancel® WB microspheres products will be available globally through the Nouryon distribution network. As a leading manufacturer of expandable microspheres, Nouryon has produced Expancel® microspheres for more than 40 years, with sales in over 80 countries. They are produced in Sweden and the US, with local supply capabilities in China and Brazil.
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About Nouryon
Nouryon is a global, specialty chemicals leader. Markets and consumers worldwide rely on our essential solutions to manufacture everyday products, such as personal care, cleaning goods, paints and coatings, agriculture and food, pharmaceuticals, and building products. Furthermore, the dedication of approximately 8,200 employees with a shared commitment to our customers, business growth, safety, sustainability and innovation has resulted in a consistently strong financial performance. We operate in over 80 countries around the world with a portfolio of industry-leading brands.
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