K2019
Evonik showcases sustainable material solutions for the sports industry
The German sports equipment manufacturer VAUDE uses the bio-based polyamides of Evonik's VESTAMID® Terra brand in its new collection of bags and backpacks.
Evonik is responding to the continuing demand for greater sustainability in the sports industry with innovative plastics solutions. The combination of environmental benefits and exceptional material properties has made the company’s bio-based polyamide VESTAMID® Terra a preferred material for VAUDE’s sports equipment. The family-owned company from southern Germany relied on the bio-based synthetic material by Evonik for developing the buckles of its new bag and backpack collection.
High-performance material with multiple benefits
VESTAMID® Terra (PA 610) offers excellent impact resistance in cold temperatures. That makes the material ideally suited for all-weather buckles and other durable elements in equipment for demanding mountaineering and other leisure activities. Thanks to their low water absorption, buckles made of PA 610 are less likely to become brittle when used in the sports equipment of VAUDE. This reduces the risk of tearing and improves product safety. Moreover, the low density of VESTAMID® Terra allows for manufacturing lighter sports equipment with a natural feel.
“Our products reflect our deep commitment to people and nature. We are always searching for innovative materials that help us meet these self-imposed obligations. The bio-based plastics of Evonik open up new opportunities to manufacture our products with even greater sustainability,” says René Bethmann, innovation manager at VAUDE.
Bio-based high-performance fibers in textiles
VAUDE plans to expand the successful use of VESTAMID® Terra to other product ranges in the future. For example, textile fibers made from Evonik's biopolyamides are lightweight, stretchable and breathable. The fabrics stand out for low moisture absorption, they dry quickly and don’t need ironing. The unique innovative high-performance fibers can be processed in all textile applications.
VESTAMID® Terra is made up to 100 percent from the seeds of the castor bean plant, but its sustainability concept goes beyond environmental benefits. Since castor bean plants can survive prolonged drought, they are typically cultivated in arid regions with no other agricultural use. As a result, the high-performance polymer does not have a negative impact on the human food chain.
To learn more about the high-performance materials and additives of Evonik, visit our tradeshow stand B28 in Hall 6 at the K Show in Düsseldorf from October 16-23.
Company information
Evonik is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. The focus on more specialty businesses, customer-oriented innovative prowess and a trustful and performance-oriented corporate culture form the heart of Evonik’s corporate strategy. They are the lever for profitable growth and a sustained increase in the value of the company. Evonik benefits specifically from its customer proximity and leading market positions. Evonik is active in over 100 countries around the world. In fiscal 2018, the enterprise with more than 32,000 employees generated sales of €13.3 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of €2.15 billion from continuing operations.
About Resource Efficiency
The Resource Efficiency segment is led by Evonik Resource Efficiency GmbH and produces high performance materials and specialty additives for environmentally friendly as well as energy-efficient systems to the automotive, paints & coatings, adhesives, construction, and many other industries. This segment employed about 10,000 employees, and generated sales of around €5.5 billion in 2018 from continuing operations.
Disclaimer
In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this press release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.