Wacoal and BASF Collaborate to Expand 'Melooop' Technology with Elastollan® TPU into Automotive Interior Applications

Demonstrating 3D fiber-based automotive component manufacturing through a concept armrest model

Realizing monomaterial design and adhesive-free structure using Wacoal's 'Melooop' technology

Singapore — June 17, 2026 — Building on their collaboration in the bra cup segment, Wacoal and BASF are expanding their joint development into automotive interior applications. The two companies are introducing a concept model of an armrest utilizing advanced 3D fiber-based manufacturing technology and BASF’s material solutions, showcasing the potential for interior components that combine lightweight design, comfort, and design flexibility.

Concept model of an automotive armrest using 3D fiber-based manufacturing technology

Melooop is a proprietary technology developed by Wacoal that uses a melt-blown method to directly form three-dimensional objects from fibers in a single step, enabling the creation of nonwoven structures without adhesives or multi-layer constructions. This integrated molding process simplifies manufacturing, reduces material usage and waste, and contributes to lower environmental impact. Additionally, it is suitable for monomaterial design composed of a single material, enhancing recyclability. Furthermore, by adjusting thickness and physical properties during the design phase, it optimizes the balance between lightweight construction, performance, and durability, meeting the requirements of automotive applications.

Elastollan® TPU supports the Melooop process by combining thermoplastic processability with elastomeric performance, enabling the formation of 3D fiber structures that are both flexible and functional. It also contributes to monomaterial design, simplifying product design and manufacturing processes.

For occupant-contact areas such as armrests, this technology simultaneously achieves elastic recovery under repeated loading (long-term dimensional stability) and soft-touch performance, while ensuring stable processing conditions for fiber formation and bonding.

Realizing monomaterial design and adhesive-free structure using Wacoal's 'Melooop' technology

Takeshi Hisamura, Executive Officer, General Manager of New Business Development Division, Director of New Business Development Office, and Director of Melooop Business Preparation Office at Wacoal Corporation, stated:

"Wacoal develops products that make daily life more comfortable and confident by integrating high-quality materials, creativity, and technological innovation. We are very excited that through our collaboration with BASF, our 'Melooop' technology can now expand beyond apparel into automotive interior applications."

Rohit Loh-Poh Gosh, Vice President of TPU Business Management, Asia Pacific, Performance Materials Division, BASF, stated:

"Wacoal’s initiative to apply its proprietary technology to new application areas aligns perfectly with BASF’s focus on advanced co-creation approaches. We are pleased to support Wacoal in developing new concepts and expanding into new industries by leveraging our expertise in material innovation and extensive experience in automotive applications."

The armrest concept model, incorporating Wacoal’s monomaterial-enabling 'Melooop' technology, will be exhibited at the Human & Car Technology Expo 2026 Nagoya, held from June 17 to 19, 2026 (Booth No. 309).

*This document is a Japanese translation and editing by BASF Japan of an English press release issued by BASF on June 17, 2026.

About the Wacoal Group

Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Kyoto, Japan, Wacoal is an apparel manufacturer. With a focus on innerwear, the company has long emphasized product development based on human body research, consistently pursuing high quality and comfort. In recent years, it has expanded into new areas such as conditioning wear and body data services using 3D measurement. Through these initiatives, Wacoal provides products and services tailored to individual body types and lifestyles, operating both domestically and internationally. For more information about the Wacoal Group, please visit https://www.wacoalholdings.jp/.

About BASF’s Performance Materials Division

BASF’s Performance Materials division leads transformation in the plastics industry by combining sustainability with high performance. Leveraging material expertise, deep industry knowledge, and a broad product portfolio, it is chosen as a partner providing comprehensive solutions across the entire plastic lifecycle. Through dedicated material focus teams, strong R&D capabilities, and a global production network located close to customers, it delivers optimal solutions tailored to regional and industry-specific needs. Its products enhance performance and efficiency in key sectors such as automotive, construction, consumer goods, and industrial applications. Together with partners, it is advancing toward a more circular and sustainable future through #OurPlasticsJourney. In 2025, the Performance Materials division achieved global sales of 6.4 billion euros.

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About BASF

BASF (Badische Anilin- und Sodafabrik) is a multinational chemical company headquartered in Ludwigshafen, Germany. The company’s purpose is to create chemistry for a sustainable future, pursuing economic success alongside environmental protection and social responsibility. It also aims to become the preferred chemical company enabling customers’ green transformation. With approximately 108,000 employees worldwide, BASF serves customers in nearly every industry globally. Its portfolio comprises core business segments (Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Nutrition & Care) and standalone business segments (Surface Technologies, Agricultural Solutions). BASF’s sales in 2025 were approximately 60 billion euros. BASF shares are traded on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY). For more information, visit https://www.basf.com/global/en.html.