Technological watch
Covestro Co-develops eTPU-based Airless Tires for Lightweight Bicycles
Air Fom has patented a solution for airless tires that overcomes the drawbacks of previous airless products using Covestro’s expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU).
Light, Elastic, Maintenance-free, Recyclable
Air Fom is now using a special technology combined with an innovative material. With the help of particle foam casting, expanded TPU is molded into the specified shape and exhibits precisely the desired properties on the rim.
The tire insert is just as lightweight and elastic as an air-filled tire, can be fitted quickly and firmly on standard rims, is maintenance-free and most importantly, recyclable – unlike the butyl rubber tubes that are used in conventional tires. The material solution can also benefit bicycle rental companies for whom a constant operational readiness of their vehicles is important. The independent ACT Lab LLC confirmed that the product meets the latest safety requirements for use in bicycles.
Air Fom's tire inserts offer clear advantages:
Light, Elastic, Maintenance-free, Recyclable
Air Fom is now using a special technology combined with an innovative material. With the help of particle foam casting, expanded TPU is molded into the specified shape and exhibits precisely the desired properties on the rim.
The tire insert is just as lightweight and elastic as an air-filled tire, can be fitted quickly and firmly on standard rims, is maintenance-free and most importantly, recyclable – unlike the butyl rubber tubes that are used in conventional tires. The material solution can also benefit bicycle rental companies for whom a constant operational readiness of their vehicles is important. The independent ACT Lab LLC confirmed that the product meets the latest safety requirements for use in bicycles.
Air Fom's tire inserts offer clear advantages:
- They are as light and elastic as an air-filled tire
- Can be mounted quickly and firmly on standard rims
- Are maintenance-free and recyclable
This project has been co-funded with the support of the LIFE financial instrument of the European Union [LIFE17 ENV/ES/000438] Life programme
The website reflects only the author's view. The Commission is not responsible for any use thay may be made of the information it contains.Last update: 2022-01-31
