Teknor Apex adds color to bio-based thermoplastics

Polymer maker for vinyl and nylon, Teknor Apex has created a color solution for clean tech company UBQ’s bio-based thermoplastics.

The company said its color masterbatch solution enables UBQ to be compounded with a brighter spectrum of colors beyond the initial brown, black and gray of the climate-positive thermoplastic.

“By incorporating UBQ into our color matching process, we are introducing options to the market that are both aesthetically pleasing and better for the planet – enabling our customers and furthering our own commitment to sustainability,” said Jordan Wolfe, technical manager, color division of Teknor Apex.

Expanding its partnership with the climate-tech developer, said Teknor Apex, its solution includes the development and supply of highly chromatic colors that incorporate UBQ’s sustainable products made entirely from unsorted organic and non recyclable waste.

Adding specialty colorant masterbatch or specially formulated colorants to UBQ compounds allows customers to meet sustainability goals while still providing a visually appealing end-product, said the firm.

“Teknor’s color masterbatch products combined with our bio-based thermoplastic strengthens our shared commitment to reshape how things are made and improve the footprint of everyday products,” said Liat Arad, VP of marketing for UBQ Materials. “We all have a role to play in reducing methane emissions.”

Teknor Apex has been an early adopter of UBQ developing eco-conscious thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) made with 35% sustainable content, said the company, paving the way for other materials companies to develop more sustainable products within a circular economy.

“Customers are able to achieve a carbon neutral or carbon negative impact while still maintaining quality and visually engaging end products for their consumers,” said Wilfe.