Polyurethane specialist Merquinsa (Montmeló / Spain; www.merquinsa.com) has introduced two new thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) grades. The company says that both products can be used instead of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) solutions. "Pearlthane D11T70" has a Shore A hardness of 69 and "Pearlcoat D161K" a Shore A hardness of 75. Both materials are plasticiser-free. D11T70 is a highly transparent grade with good resistance to oil, grease and scratches. D161K on the other hand, is said to have good ultrasonic welding properties and low-temperature flexibility. The manufacturer claims it is particularly suitable for the coating of fabrics by calandering.