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October 10 2024

We promised something green that would turn heads. dimpora® BIO is here.

The world’s first microporous membrane with over 60% bio-based content.

A leap beyond the usual 20-40%. This innovation sets a new standard for the outdoor wear industry, combining high performance with higher sustainability in a way that’s never been done before.

This launch isn’t just about introducing a new product – it’s a reflection of the direction we’re moving in as we continue to rethink and improve the future of membranes. Anna Beltzung, CTO Dimpora AG.

What makes dimpora® BIO different?

dimpora® BIO is built from a unique blend of bio-based (>60%) and oil-based materials, with castor oil as a key component. This careful combination allows us to deliver a membrane that excels in both, sustainability and performance.

But why not a fully bio-based membrane?

It’s all about achieving the right balance. The non-bio content enhances stretch and makes processing smoother throughout our supply chain. In short, it ensures we don’t compromise performance for sustainability.

Our close collaboration with Arkema, a global leader in specialty materials, has been crucial in making this possible. Their polymers offer unmatched energy return and cold-weather durability for dynamic outdoor applications. 

A unique performance coming from a unique chemistry.

When we set out to create a membrane that could handle extreme conditions, we needed a material that checked every box:

  • Bio-Based at its core: Derived from castor oil, a renewable resource that doesn’t compete with food crops. This aligns with our mission to reduce reliance on petroleum.
  • Built for performance: Lightweight yet durable, allows our membrane to withstand extreme weather and the demands of high-intensity outdoor activities. It’s as tough as it is flexible.
  • Recyclability: this membrane isn’t just for the present; it’s designed with the future in mind, where recycling keeps valuable materials in circulation. Together with Arkema, we are actively working on the post-consumer recyclability.
Castor beans, the foundation of dimpora® BIO, is a powerful renewable feedstock:
  • Naturally resists droughts.
  • Grows on less fertile land, causing no deforestation.
  • Doesn’t interfere with food production.
  • Offers high profits for farmers with minimal effort.
  • It can be stored for extended periods after harvesting, giving farmers the flexibility to sell it when they need income.
What’s behind our polymer supply chain

Behind dimpora® BIO’s bio-based content lies a commitment to sustainable sourcing. A portion of the castor oil used comes from farms involved in the Pragati Sustainable Castor Initiative, a program launched in 2016 dedicated to promoting sustainable farming practices in India. Arkema, one of the founding members of this initiative, has helped establish a framework that focuses on:

  • Improving yields and farmers’ income through good agricultural practices
  • Efficient water use and maintaining soil fertility
  • Adoption of responsible waste management practices
  • Better health and safety standards while respecting human rights

To date, over 7,000 farmers have been trained, audited, and certified through this program, ensuring a responsible approach to castor farming that aligns with our sustainability goals.

Is this polymer perfect? No material is. But it comes pretty close. 
  • Cost: Because it is a specialty polymer combined with a new technology, it may come at a higher price compared to commodity materials. However, when you consider the performance and environmental benefits, it’s a price worth paying for the long-term impact.
  • Water use: Like all bio-based products, castor seeds require water to grow. However, it takes advantage of the seasonal monsoon rain for most of its needs.
  • Land use: Growing castor beans also requires land but unlike food crops, it also grows well on marginal lands; therefore it is not in competition with food or animal feed. In the Gujarat region of India where most of the castor seeds come from, it has been cultivated for decades without causing deforestation.
  • Certification: Currently, 7,000 farms are certified under the Pragati Sustainable Castor Initiative. The goal is to expand this number, because the more farms that join, the greater the positive impact. By supporting initiatives like this, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.
Sustainability, but not just on paper

Sustainability isn’t just about checking the “bio-based” box. It’s about ensuring that every stage of production, from sourcing to end-of-life, is managed responsibly. Arkema’s Advanced Bio-Circular (ABC) Program ensures that every stage of production is managed responsibly. It’s not just about having a renewable resource, it’s about making sure that resource stays more sustainable throughout its entire lifecycle.

You can dive deeper into the ABC initiative here.

At the end of the day…

Choosing the right material was never about jumping on the bio-based trend. It’s always been about finding that perfect balance between performance that holds up in the real world and sustainability that protects the one we live in. With dimpora® BIO, we’ve created a membrane that truly delivers where it counts, all while caring for the environment we love. And, as usual, this is just the beginning.

Get in touch with us for further technical information.

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