Braskem, a global leader in biopolymers, is supplying TE Connectivity with its I’m green bio-based materials to support the development of more sustainable electronic components. TE Connectivity, known for manufacturing connectivity and sensor products, has published a whitepaper titled “Bio-Based Heat Shrink Tubing: Materials Innovation for Next-Generation Sealing and Protection of Electronic Components.” The document outlines the motivations behind adopting bio-based materials for heat shrink tubing.
The move from fossil fuel-derived to plant-based materials in heat shrink tubing comes as industries face increasing pressure from climate change, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations to lower greenhouse gas emissions. Heat shrink tubing is widely used to insulate electrical components against environmental hazards such as heat and water. It plays an important role in sectors like industrial transportation, automotive, aerospace, and defense.
Key points highlighted in the whitepaper include the introduction of TE’s BIOFUSE Tubing line—comprising Bio-Innovation CAP (BICAP) and Bio-Innovation Splice Sealing (BISS) products—which are made from renewable plant-based polymers. According to the report, these bio-based tubes offer durability, flame retardancy, and electrical insulation comparable to traditional materials. The products also comply with global standards such as UL224 and California Proposition 65.
The I’m green brand uses ethanol derived from sugarcane instead of conventional oil-based feedstocks like naphtha. This renewable approach helps reduce CO2 emissions because sugarcane absorbs carbon dioxide during photosynthesis throughout its production chain up to Braskem’s facilities.
“TE’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is at the heart of this development,” said Mohammed Nawaz, Director of Engineering, Performance Materials at TE Connectivity. “This whitepaper not only showcases our technical advancements but also reinforces our ongoing efforts in shaping a more sustainable future for electronics manufacturing.” The whitepaper can be downloaded on TE Connectivity’s website.
Braskem is marking 15 years since launching its I’m green bio-based brand. Over this period, the brand has become recognized for providing renewable solutions that help reduce carbon emissions without sacrificing performance. Braskem states that this anniversary highlights both its legacy and continued commitment toward advancing a sustainable economy.
Braskem operates 40 industrial units across Brazil, the United States, Mexico, and Germany and exports products to over 70 countries worldwide.
TE Connectivity employs more than 85,000 people—including 9,000 engineers—in approximately 130 countries.
For further information about Braskem or TE Connectivity’s initiatives in sustainable electronics manufacturing or product availability by region, contact their respective representatives or visit their official websites.
