LAPP uses new biodegradable plastic in the sheathing material of industrial Ethernet cables

Climate change is one of the most important issues of our time. A carbon footprint primarily indicates how much climate‑damaging carbon dioxide is produced as a result of human and corporate activities. The smaller the carbon footprint, the better.

This is also the goal that LAPP and BASF have set for themselves. Both companies aim for their products to help reduce carbon footprints. A key part of this objective is the use of biodegradable plastics. LAPP has now introduced its first Ethernet cable featuring a biodegradable sheath material. The compound was developed by the chemical company BASF.

The industrial Ethernet cable ETHERLINE® FD P Cat.5e has long been part of LAPP’s product portfolio. The cable is ideal for patching and for use in drag chain applications. It is now also available in a biodegradable version. For this cable, LAPP — the world’s leading provider of integrated cable and connection technology solutions — has replaced BASF’s previously fossil‑based TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) sheath material with a TPU made from renewable raw materials.

“Using plastics derived from rapidly renewable raw materials is an effective way to reduce dependence on fossil resources while significantly lowering the environmental impact of our products,” said Alexander Terpe, Head of Cable Product Development, U.I. Lapp GmbH.

Sustainable development starts with sustainable products

The biodegradable plastic in question is Elastollan® N, BASF’s thermoplastic polyurethane. It is a biopolymer based on corn. Depending on the TPU type, the share of renewable raw materials is 45–60%. Importantly, the TPU offers the same durability, flexibility, mechanical properties, and resistance to hydrolysis, chemicals, and UV radiation as conventional Elastollan®. The processing parameters also remain unchanged. A particularly significant aspect is that the proportion of organic material in the finished product can be measured precisely (according to ASTM D 6866).

“BASF’s biodegradable TPU is a truly high‑performance material, and it stands up extremely well compared to traditional fossil‑based materials. Production can be transitioned quickly, and it represents a real step forward in delivering added value to our customers through a sustainable product,” says Oliver Mühren, Group Manager of Sales, BASF Polyurethanes GmbH.

When assessing environmental impact, the biodegradable product improves the carbon footprint by approximately 15%. As a result, Elastollan® N is part of BASF’s recycling strategy and helps conserve fossil resources while reducing CO₂ emissions. LAPP’s goal is also to gradually expand the range of biodegradable sheath materials used in its products.