From 23 to 25 September 2025, BASF will showcase new approaches for footwear manufacturing at the international Simac Tanning Tech trade fair in Milan. The company will present polyurethane materials and recycling processes designed to deliver both environmental and functional benefits.
A key focus is on circular economy concepts. These include melt-processable polyurethanes that can be mechanically recycled, as well as the new material Elastollan RC, which can contain up to 100 percent recycled content. BASF will also highlight depolymerization of post-consumer shoe waste and the use of mixed plastic waste as feedstock under its ChemCycling program.
Another exhibit is Elastopan Springpure, a lightweight yet robust material. In collaboration with technology partners, BASF has developed lighter midsole designs that can be integrated into existing production processes.
The company will also emphasize automated footwear manufacturing. Together with Desma Schuhmaschinen GmbH, BASF demonstrates technologies such as direct soling and the use of foamed thermoplastics, which aim to improve design flexibility, comfort, and energy efficiency in production.
BASF can be found in Hall 10, booth G56/H55.
