Exploring the Mechanical and Thermal Impact of Natural Fillers on Thermoplastic Polyurethane and Styrene-Butadiene Rubber Footwear Sole Materials.

The increasing concern for sustainability in the footwear industry has spurred the exploration of eco-friendly alternatives for materials commonly used in sole manufacturing. This study examined the effect of incorporating rice straw and cellulose as fillers into soles made from either styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Both fillers were used as a substitute in mass percentages ranging from 5 to 20% in the original SBR and TPU formulas, and their impact on mechanical properties such as abrasion and tear resistance, as well as thermal properties, was thoroughly evaluated.

Physical evaluation of insole materials used to treat the diabetic foot.

Background: The selection of materials for the production of multilayer insoles for diabetic feet is a difficult task owing to the lack of technical information about these materials. Therefore, objective criteria were established for the selection of these materials.

Methods: Mechanical- and comfort-related tests for the mechanical characterization of different materials and their combinations were considered.