Lifocork® UV 701021-2

The main quantity of natural cork which is harvested today is used as pressed cork or mixed with PU or rubber. The processing of this kind of cork can be expensive and require a lot of energy.

We have developed a special manufacturing method to combine natural cork with thermoplastic raw materials. Meaning Lifocork can be processed using typical thermoplastic processing methods such as injection moulding, extrusion or thermoforming.

Cork is a natural product which comes from the bark of the cork oak tree. The removal of the bark does not harm the trees and the bark is only harvested after the first 20 years of growth. The removal stimulates a steady regeneration of the bark. Each cork tree provides on average 16 harvests over its 150-200 year lifespan.

Cork itself has a cell-like structure which is light and highly compressible. It is used in construction, sports, industrial and household applications.

It's also possible to make foamed parts from Lifocork. This offers materials with very low densities (as low as 0.45 g/ccm) and therefore gives lightweight parts. The foamed Lifocork also gives a damping, shock absorbent effect, ideal for orthopaedic shoe lifts and inserts.

Lifocork can be processed using thermoplastic processing methods. In injection moulding it can be processed using standard equipment.

Lifocork can also be processed in 2-component moulding. It has an excellent bond to TPE, PP and PE.

Other processing methods include extrusion or thermoforming with a double belt press.