Synthetic leather, produced from multi-layer laminated thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), embossed with leather-like pattern.

Faux suede synthetic leather produced from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) microfibre, with selectively etched pattern.

Cross section through an automotive instrument panel (dashboard) featuring BASF Elastoflex polyurethane resin (PUR) foam. This is a safety critical part of the design, as well as important visual and tactile aspect, sitting in front of the driver. In must be able to tolerate some demanding conditions - temperature extremes, direct sunlight and heat through the windshield - while maintaining its appearance for the life of the vehicle. They are made with various material technologies, such as with unpainted polypropylene (PP), or as is the case with higher spec vehicles like this example, using PUR foam between an injection moulded structural carrier and tactile surface foil. The foam bonds the carrier, which is typically PP or polycarbonate blended with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC/ABS), to the surface foil to create a smooth profile with soft touch feel. Surface foils include thermoplastic olefin (TPO), and slush moulded thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Image BASF.

Hvisk handbag in Leap alternative leather. This 89% bio-based textile is made with a three-layer structure comprising a Tencel Lyocell regenerated cellulose backing fabric, apple waste natural rubber blend middle layer that is plastic-free but not 100% bio-based, and partially bio-based BASF polyurethane (PUR) coating for durability.