Biobased TPE Industry Faces Challenges and Opportunities in Green Transition

As sustainability becomes a global priority, material science is advancing at unprecedented speed. In the realm of high-performance materials, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) – which combine rubber-like elasticity with plastic processability – are undergoing a profound ecological transformation. Traditionally derived from non-renewable petroleum, TPE production is now witnessing the emergence of bio-based alternatives made from renewable resources. This shift promises to reduce carbon emissions, conserve finite resources, and create new opportunities for manufacturers.

However, such transformative change doesn't come without obstacles. Magdalena Michl, Product Manager EMEA at KRAIBURG TPE, provides expert analysis of the key challenges facing bio-based TPE adoption and strategies to overcome them. She emphasizes that transitioning from fossil-based to renewable and recycled materials is crucial for reducing environmental impact and preserving natural resources. While bio-based solutions present exciting opportunities, their practical implementation faces significant hurdles.

Several companies have successfully introduced bio-based TPE products that significantly reduce product carbon footprints (PCF). These materials support the shift to renewable feedstocks and help achieve both short-term and long-term CO₂ reduction targets. Yet despite strong market interest, adoption rates remain slower than expected. From her perspective as a product manager, Michl identifies three core challenges observed during years of bio-based TPE development: technical performance, raw material sourcing, and pricing.

"Many customers approach bio-based TPE with caution, questioning whether it can match the performance standards of conventional fossil-based TPE, particularly in demanding applications," Michl explains. This represents the primary adoption barrier. Overcoming it requires continuous raw material development and rigorous testing to provide market-ready solutions that demonstrate bio-based materials don't necessitate performance compromises.

KRAIBURG TPE has invested heavily in this area. Their research reveals numerous bio-based raw materials with performance characteristics rivaling virgin materials. "We've successfully incorporated many such bio-based materials into our product portfolio, even meeting demanding requirements like strong adhesion to polar substrates such as ABS/PC or polyamides," Michl states. Through careful material selection and formulation, bio-based TPE can compete with – and sometimes surpass – traditional alternatives.

Raw material provenance presents another complex issue. "Sourcing strategy depends largely on how we position ourselves and make selections," Michl stresses. "We strongly recommend companies using bio-based materials to clearly define which raw materials they will use and which to avoid." Deep understanding of material backgrounds or partnering with knowledgeable suppliers with clear sourcing policies becomes essential.

KRAIBURG TPE strategically focuses on second- and third-generation bio-based feedstocks as defined by EU standards. These materials derive from non-food crops, byproducts of food/feed production, and various waste streams – avoiding competition with food resources. "Choosing second- and third-generation materials achieves better environmental balance and resource efficiency while addressing supply chain stability," Michl clarifies. This clear positioning helps alleviate concerns about bio-materials displacing food production and provides solid foundations for sustainability claims.

Pricing remains a critical factor in new material adoption. "Raw material costs present significant challenges," Michl acknowledges. "Currently, bio-based TPE carries substantially higher price points than virgin materials, reflecting lower market demand volumes." However, she notes this pricing dynamic is typical during early adoption phases.

Addressing cost barriers requires collaborative, strategic approaches. Michl emphasizes building strong supplier-customer relationships, establishing clear renewable material transition strategies, and maintaining realistic expectations about bio-material benefits. "We're working with suppliers to develop more cost-efficient production methods and optimized supply chains while helping customers understand bio-based TPE's long-term value in reducing carbon footprints, enhancing brand image, and meeting tightening regulations," she explains. Through such efforts, the industry can gradually narrow price differentials with conventional materials.

By addressing these three challenges – performance, sourcing, and pricing – the industry can unlock bio-based TPE's full potential and accelerate sustainable transformation. "Every material innovation represents an opportunity for greater environmental harmony," Michl concludes. "We anticipate seeing bio-based TPE play increasingly important roles across applications to reduce ecological impacts."

As an industry pioneer in this green transition, KRAIBURG TPE continues advancing sustainable material solutions. "I'm excited to see where this journey leads and welcome discussions about potential solutions," Michl remarks, highlighting the importance of industry collaboration in building a more sustainable future.