Prepolymer-based thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn for a textile product

Abstract

There is provided a thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn for a textile product, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn is produced from a thermoplastic polyurethane material, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material is produced from a polyurethane formulation comprising: a polyisocyanate component comprising a polyisocyanate prepolymer, wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polyol compounds and one or more polyisocyanate compounds; and a polyol component.

Description

[0001] 1 EU-51182

[0002] PREPOLYMER-BASED THERMOPLASTIC POLYURETHANE MULTIFILAMENT YARN FOR A TEXTILE PRODUCT FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] [1] The present disclosure relates to a thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn for a textile product. The present disclosure also relates to a textile product comprising the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn, use of the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn in the production of a textile product, and a method of producing the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] [2] Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) have many uses, including use in the textile industry.

[0006] In particular, the TPU may be made into a filament (or fiber) to form a yarn. The yarn may then be made into a textile product such as a textile component of a shoe (e.g., a shoe upper). A multifilament yarn is a type of yam which comprises more than one filament, e.g., multiple filaments may be combined (optionally by twisting them together) to form a multifilament yam.

[0007] [3] In yarn manufacturing, a multifilament is typically formed by melt spinning, e.g., melting a TPU and extruding the molten TPU through a spinneret to form multiple filaments, followed by cooling and winding, thereby forming a multifilament yam. However, the present inventors have found that it is a common problem that, when using the currently available TPU materials suitable for yam manufacturing, the extruded thermoplastic polyurethane filaments break during the yam manufacturing process, resulting in an unstable yam manufacturing process. Moreover, due to the generally sticky nature of TPU, extruded filaments made from TPU may easily entangle once formed and therefore may not be effectively made into a multifilament yam.

[0008] [4] Thus, there is a need for a TPU material which allows for the production of multifilament yams without the filaments being prone to breaking during the yam manufacturing process. That is, there is a need for the filaments forming the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn to have enhanced mechanical properties such that the filaments do not break during manufacture of the multifilament yam. Moreover, there is a need for a TPU material which allows for the production of multifilament yarns without the entanglement of the filaments due to stickiness of the TPU filaments.

[0009] [5] The present disclosure addresses the problems and needs mentioned above.

[0010] SUMMARY2 EU-51182

[0011] [6] In a first aspect, there is provided a thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn for a textile product, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn is produced from a thermoplastic polyurethane material, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material is produced from a polyurethane formulation comprising:

[0012] (i) a polyisocyanate component comprising a polyisocyanate prepolymer, wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polyol compounds and one or more polyisocyanate compounds; and

[0013] (ii) a polyol component.

[0014] [7] In a second aspect, there is provided a textile product comprising the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam as defined herein.

[0015] [8] In a third aspect, there is provided a use of the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam as defined herein in the production of a textile product.

[0016] [9] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of producing the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn as defined herein, the method comprising the following steps:

[0017] (i) providing a thermoplastic polyurethane material as defined herein; and (ii) processing the thermoplastic polyurethane material to form the multifilament yam.

[0018]

[0010] The embodiments described should not be read to limit or otherwise narrow the scope of any inventive concepts otherwise provided by the present disclosure. While multiple embodiments are disclosed, other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description. Accordingly, the description is to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0019] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020]

[0011] The present disclosure provides a thermoplastic multifilament yarn for a textile product.

[0021] The thermoplastic multifilament yam is produced from (or made from) a thermoplastic polyurethane material.

[0022]

[0012] In the context of the present disclosure, the term “thermoplastic” refers to a material which softens and becomes pliable or mouldable upon heating to an elevated temperature, and which hardens and solidifies upon cooling. The process is reversible and can be performed several times, i.e., heating and cooling of the material may be performed multiple times.

[0023]

[0013] The thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament may contain further materials (besides the thermoplastic polyurethane material) or additives which are common in the art.3 EU-51182

[0024] Examples of suitable additives include antioxidants, dyeing agents or pigments, flame retardants, and the like.

[0025]

[0014] [Thermoplastic polyurethane material]

[0026]

[0015] The thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn is produced from a thermoplastic polyurethane material. In one embodiment, the form of the thermoplastic polyurethane material before being made into a multifilament may be a pellet, flake or powder, preferably a pellet.

[0027]

[0016] The thermoplastic polyurethane material is produced from (or made from or derived from) a polyurethane formulation. The components of the polyurethane formulation are mixed to form a reactive mixture, which then reacts to produce the thermoplastic polyurethane material. The skilled person would know the conditions necessary to ensure that the polyurethane formulation / reactive mixture produces the thermoplastic polyurethane material, as such conditions are known in the art and are common general knowledge.

[0028]

[0017] The polyurethane formulation comprises (i) a polyisocyanate component comprising a polyisocyanate prepolymer, wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polyol compounds and one or more polyisocyanate compounds and (ii) a polyol component. Further components may be present, such as a surfactant component, a catalyst component and the like.

[0029]

[0018] [Polyisocyanate component]

[0030]

[0019] The polyisocyanate component comprises a polyisocyanate prepolymer. In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate component consists of a polyisocyanate prepolymer. The polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polyol compounds and one or more polyisocyanate compounds. As used herein, the phrase “polyisocyanate compound” refers to a molecule which has two or more isocyanate functional groups in the molecule. As used herein, the phrase “polyol compound” refers to a molecule which has two or more hydroxyl functional groups in the molecule.

[0031]

[0020] The polyisocyanate prepolymer may be prepared by reaction of an excessive amount of one or more polyisocyanate compounds with one or more polyol compounds, optionally in the presence of a catalyst, in order to obtain a polyisocyanate prepolymer having a desired NCO value. Methods to prepare prepolymers have been described in the art. The relative amounts of the one or more polyisocyanate compounds and the one or more polyol compounds depend on their equivalent weights and on the desired NCO value and can be determined easily by those skilled in the art.4 EU-51182

[0032]

[0021] As used herein, the term “one or more” may refer to one type of compound, or may refer to two types of compounds, or may refer to three types of compounds, and so on.

[0033]

[0022] The polyisocyanate compound used to make the polyisocyanate prepolymer is not limited, and any known polyisocyanate compound suitable for use may be used. Each of the one or more polyisocyanate compounds typically has the structure R-(NCO)X, wherein x is at least 2 and R is an aromatic group, alicyclic group, an aliphatic group, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate compound is a diisocyanate compound.

[0034]

[0023] The one or more polyisocyanate compounds may comprise any one or more polyisocyanate compounds selected from hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), methylene dicyclohexyl diisocyanate, cyclohexane diisocyanate, toluene diisocyanate (TDI), naphthalene diisocyanate (NDI), tetramethylxylene diisocyanate, phenylene diisocyanate, and diphenylmethane diisocyanate (also known as methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, MDI). Any isomer of the polyisocyanate compound may be used. For example, when referring to MDI, at least the isomers 2,2’-MDI, 2,4’-MDI, 4,4’-MDI or a combination thereof are referred to.

[0035]

[0024] In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate compound is an aromatic polyisocyanate compound, and is preferably an MDI-based compound. In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate compound is MDI.

[0036]

[0025] In one embodiment, the one or more polyisocyanate compounds consists of one type of polyisocyanate compound.

[0037]

[0026] The one or more polyol compounds used to make the polyisocyanate prepolymer are not limited, and any known polyol compounds suitable for use may be used.

[0038]

[0027] In one embodiment, the one or more polyol compounds may comprise any one or more polyol compounds selected from a polyether polyol, a polyester polyol, a polyether polyester polyol, a polycarbonate polyol and a poly caprolactone polyol.

[0039]

[0028] The weight-average molecular weight of the one or more polyol compounds each may be from about 20 g / mol to about 20000 g / mol, or from about 20 g / mol to about 15000 g / mol, or from about 20 g / mol to about 10000 g / mol, or from about 20 g / mol to about 7500 g / mol, or from about 20 g / mol to 5000 g / mol, or from about 500 g / mol to 2500 g / mol.

[0040]

[0029] Examples of polyether polyols include, but are not limited to, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol-ethylene glycol copolymer,5 EU-51182

[0041] polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG or pTHF), polytetramethylene glycol, polyhexamethylene glycol, polyheptamethylene glycol, polydecamethylene glycol, and polyether polyols obtained by ring-opening co-polymerization of alkylene oxides, such as ethylene oxide and / or propylene oxide and / or butylene oxide, with initiators having functionality from 2 to 8.

[0042]

[0030] The poly ether polyol may be made by the addition of alkylene oxides to initiators, which may contain from 2 to 8 active hydrogen atoms per molecule (termed herein “alkylene oxide-based polyether polyols”). In some embodiments, the initiators may include glycols, glycerol, trimethylolpropane, triethanolamine, pentaerythritol, sorbitol, sucrose, ethylenediamine, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, aniline, toluenediamines (e.g., 2,4- and 2,6- toluenediamines), polymethylene polyphenylene polyamines, N-alkylphenylene- diamines, o-chloro-aniline, p-aminoaniline, diaminonaphthalene, or a combination thereof. Suitable alkylene oxides that may be used to form the polyether polyols include ethylene oxide (EO), propylene oxide (PO), butylene oxide, or a combination thereof.

[0043]

[0031] Examples of polyester polyols include, but are not limited to, those which may be obtained by reacting a diol and a polybasic acid. Examples of diols include ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, tetramethylene glycol, polytetramethylene glycol, 1,6-hexanediol, 3-methyl-l,5-pentanediol, 1,9-nonanediol and 2-methyl-l,8-octanediol. Examples of polybasic acids include phthalic acid, dimer acid, isophthalic acid, terephthalic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, adipic acid and sebacic acid.

[0044]

[0032] Examples of polycarbonate polyols include, but are not limited to, aliphatic polycarbonate diols, for example those based upon alkylene glycols, ether glycols, alicyclic glycols or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the alkylene groups for preparing the polycarbonate polyol can comprise from 5 to 10 carbon atoms and can be a straight chain, cycloalkylene or combinations thereof. Nonlimiting examples of such alkylene groups include hexylene, octylene, decylene, cyclohexylene and cyclohexyldimethylene. The polycarbonate polyols can be prepared, in non-limiting examples, by reacting the alkylene glycol with a dialkyl carbonate, such as methyl, ethyl, n-propyl or n-butyl carbonate, or diaryl carbonate, such as diphenyl or dinaphthyl carbonate, or by reacting a hydroxy -terminated alkylene diol with phosgene or bischoloroformate, in a manner well known to those skilled in the art.

[0045]

[0033] Polycaprolactone polyols include, but are not limited to, those prepared by condensing caprolactone in the presence of an initiator such as water, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,2-propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propylene6 EU-51182

[0046] glycol, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, poly(oxyethylene- oxypropylene)glycols and similar polyalkylene glycols, either blocked or capped containing up to about 40 or more alkyleneoxy units in the molecule, 3-methyl-l,5- pentanediol, cyclohexanediol, 4,4'-methylene-bis-cyclohexanol, 4,4'-isopropylidene bis-cyclohexanol, xylenediol, 2-(4-hydroxymethylphenyl)ethanol, 1,4-butanediol, glycerol, trimethylolpropane, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, triethanolamine, triisopropanolamine, erythritol, pentaerythritol and N,N,N',N'-tetrakis-(2-hydroxyethyl)ethylene diamine. The caprolactone reacted with the initiator can be caprolactone itself or a substituted caprolactone as described in US Pat. No. 3169945.

[0047]

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the one or more polyol compounds are each a polyether polyol, such as a PTMEG (polytetramethylene ether glycol, also known as polytetrahydrofuran polyol, pTHF) polyol or an alkylene oxide-based poly ether polyol. In one embodiment, the one or more polyol compounds are each polytetrahydrofuran-based polyols (pTHF- based polyols). Preferably, the one or more polyol compounds are each polytetrahydrofuran polyols.

[0048]

[0035] In one embodiment, the one or more polyol compounds comprises two polyol compounds.

[0049] In one embodiment, the one or more polyol compounds consists of two polyol compounds. In one embodiment, the two polyol compounds are both polyether polyols (a first polyether polyol and a second polyether polyol). In one embodiment, the first polyether polyol has a weight average molecular weight of between 500 to 1400 g / mol, and the second poly ether polyol has a weight average molecular weight of between 1500 to 3500 g / mol, preferably 1500 to 2500 g / mol. In one embodiment, the two polyol compounds are both pTHF polyols (a first pTHF polyol and a second pTHF polyol). In one embodiment, the first pTHF polyol has a weight average molecular weight of between 500 to 1400 g / mol, and the second pTHF polyol has a weight average molecular weight of between 1500 to 2500 g / mol.

[0050]

[0036] In one embodiment, the one or more polyol compounds comprises a chain extender polyol compound. The chain extender is not limited, and any known chain extender suitable for use may be used. The chain extender may have at least two active hydrogens in its molecule and be capable of reacting with a polyisocyanate compound. In one embodiment, the chain extender may have a molar mass below 500 g / mol, and is preferably a polyhydric alcohol. The chain extender may be a single chain extender or a mixture of chain extenders. Examples of suitable chain extenders include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene7 EU-51182

[0051] glycol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, methylpentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, dipropylene glycol and tripropylene glycol. In one embodiment, the one or more polyol compounds does not comprise a chain extender.

[0052]

[0037] In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polyether polyols and one or more aromatic polyisocyanate compounds. In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polyether polyols and MDI. In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from two polyether polyols and MDI. In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from two pTHF polyols and MDI. In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from two polyether polyols (a first polyether polyol and a second polyether polyol) and MDI, wherein the first polyether polyol has a weight average molecular weight of between 500 to 1400 g / mol and the second polyether polyol compound has a weight average molecular weight of between 1500 to 2500 g / mol. In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from two pTHF polyols (a first pTHF polyol and a second pTHF polyol) and MDI, wherein the first pTHF polyol has a weight average molecular weight of between 500 to 1400 g / mol and the second pTHF polyol compound has a weight average molecular weight of between 1500 to 2500 g / mol.

[0053]

[0038] In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from two poly ether polyols (a first polyether polyol and a second polyether polyol) and MDI, wherein the first polyether polyol has a weight average molecular weight of between 500 to 1400 g / mol and the second polyether polyol compound has a weight average molecular weight of between 1500 to 2500 g / mol, and wherein the first polyether polyol is present in an amount of from 10 weight% to 30 weight%, the second poly ether polyol is present in an amount of from 10 weight% to 30 weight%, and the MDI is present in an amount of from 40 weight% to 80 weight%, based upon the total amount of first polyether polyol, second poly ether polyol and MDI forming the polyisocyanate prepolymer.

[0054]

[0039] In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from two polyether polyols (a first polyether polyol and a second polyether polyol) and MDI, wherein the first polyether polyol has a weight average molecular weight of between 500 to 1400 g / mol and the second polyether polyol compound has a weight average molecular weight of between 1500 to 2500 g / mol, and wherein the first polyether polyol is present in an amount of from 15 weight% to 25 weight%, the second poly ether polyol is present in an amount of from 15 weight% to 25 weight%, and the MDI is present in an amount8 EU-51182

[0055] of from 50 weight% to 70 weight%, based upon the total amount of first polyether polyol, second poly ether polyol and MDI forming the polyisocyanate prepolymer.

[0056]

[0040] In one embodiment, the polyisocyanate prepolymer has an NCO content (%) of from 5% to 40%, or from 10% to 30%, or from 10% to 25%, or from 13% to 21%, or from 15% to 20%, or from 16% to 18%. The NCO content is measured according to ASTM D5155-01.

[0057]

[0041] [Polyol component]

[0058]

[0042] The polyurethane formulation comprises a polyol component. The polyol component may comprise one type of polyol compound, or two types of polyol compounds, or three types of polyol compounds, and so on. In one embodiment, the polyol component consists of one type of polyol compound.

[0059]

[0043] The polyol compound of the polyol component may be the same as the polyol compound used to produce the polyisocyanate prepolymer, as described above, or may be different. The definition of the polyol compound of the polyol component is the same as the polyol compound used to produce the polyisocyanate prepolymer, as described above, but the polyol compound of the polyol component is independent of the polyol compound used to produce the polyisocyanate prepolymer.

[0060]

[0044] In one embodiment, the polyol compound may comprise any one or more polyol compounds selected from a polyether polyol, a polyester polyol, a polyether polyester polyol, a polycarbonate polyol and a poly caprolactone polyol.

[0061]

[0045] The weight-average molecular weight of the polyol compound may be from about 20 g / mol to about 20000 g / mol, or from about 20 g / mol to about 15000 g / mol, or from about 20 g / mol to about 10000 g / mol, or from about 20 g / mol to about 7500 g / mol, or from about 20 g / mol to 5000 g / mol.

[0062]

[0046] Examples of polyether polyols include, but are not limited to, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol-ethylene glycol copolymer, polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG or pTHF), polytetramethylene glycol, polyhexamethylene glycol, polyheptamethylene glycol, polydecamethylene glycol, and polyether polyols obtained by ring-opening co-polymerization of alkylene oxides, such as ethylene oxide and / or propylene oxide and / or butylene oxide, with initiators having functionality from 2 to 8.

[0063]

[0047] The polyether polyol may be made by the addition of alkylene oxides to initiators, which may contain from 2 to 8 active hydrogen atoms per molecule (termed herein “alkylene oxide-based polyether polyols”). In some embodiments, the initiators may include9 EU-51182

[0064] glycols, glycerol, trimethylolpropane, triethanolamine, pentaerythritol, sorbitol, sucrose, ethylenediamine, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, aniline, toluenediamines (e.g., 2,4- and 2,6- toluenediamines), polymethylene polyphenylene polyamines, N-alkylphenylene- diamines, o-chloro-aniline, p-aminoaniline, diaminonaphthalene, or a combination thereof. Suitable alkylene oxides that may be used to form the polyether polyols include ethylene oxide (EO), propylene oxide (PO), butylene oxide, or a combination thereof.

[0065]

[0048] Examples of polyester polyols include, but are not limited to, those which may be obtained by reacting a diol and a polybasic acid. Examples of diols include ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, tetramethylene glycol, polytetramethylene glycol, 1,6-hexanediol, 3-methyl-l,5-pentanediol, 1,9-nonanediol and 2-methyl-l,8-octanediol. Examples of polybasic acids include phthalic acid, dimer acid, isophthalic acid, terephthalic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, adipic acid and sebacic acid.

[0066]

[0049] Examples of polycarbonate polyols include, but are not limited to, aliphatic polycarbonate diols, for example those based upon alkylene glycols, ether glycols, alicyclic glycols or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the alkylene groups for preparing the polycarbonate polyol can comprise from 5 to 10 carbon atoms and can be a straight chain, cycloalkylene or combinations thereof. Nonlimiting examples of such alkylene groups include hexylene, octylene, decylene, cyclohexylene and cyclohexyldimethylene. The polycarbonate polyols can be prepared, in non-limiting examples, by reacting the alkylene glycol with a dialkyl carbonate, such as methyl, ethyl, n-propyl or n-butyl carbonate, or diaryl carbonate, such as diphenyl or dinaphthyl carbonate, or by reacting a hydroxy -terminated alkylene diol with phosgene or bischoloroformate, in a manner well known to those skilled in the art.

[0067]

[0050] Polycaprolactone polyols include, but are not limited to, those prepared by condensing caprolactone in the presence of an initiator such as water, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,2-propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, poly(oxyethylene- oxypropylene)glycols and similar polyalkylene glycols, either blocked or capped containing up to about 40 or more alkyleneoxy units in the molecule, 3-methyl-l,5- pentanediol, cyclohexanediol, 4,4'-methylene-bis-cyclohexanol, 4,4'-isopropylidene bis-cyclohexanol, xylenediol, 2-(4-hydroxymethylphenyl)ethanol, 1,4-butanediol, glycerol, trimethylolpropane, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, triethanolamine, triisopropanolamine, erythritol, pentaerythritol and N,N,N',N'-tetrakis-(2-hydroxyethyl)ethylene diamine.10 EU-51182

[0068] The caprolactone reacted with the initiator can be caprolactone itself or a substituted caprolactone as described in US Pat. No. 3169945.

[0069]

[0051] In one embodiment, the polyol compound is a chain extender polyol compound. The chain extender is not limited, and any known chain extender suitable for use may be used. The chain extender may be a single chain extender or a mixture of chain extenders. The chain extender has at least two active hydrogens in its molecule and is capable of reacting with an isocyanate group.

[0070]

[0052] In one embodiment, the chain extender may have a molar mass below 500 g / mol, or below 400 g / mol, or below 300 g / mol, or below 200 g / mol, or below 150 g / mol. In one embodiment, the chain extender is a polyol compound containing from 2 to 6 hydroxyl groups. In one embodiment, the chain extender is a polyol compound containing 2 or 3 hydroxyl groups (i.e. a diol compound or a triol compound, respectively). In one embodiment, the chain extender is a diol compound or a triol compound having a molar mass below 500 g / mol. In one embodiment, the chain extender is a diol compound having a molar mass below 500 g / mol. Examples of suitable chain extenders include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, methylpentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, dipropylene glycol and tripropylene glycol. In one embodiment, the chain extender is selected from ethylene glycol, di ethylene glycol, propylene glycol and 1,4-butanediol. In one embodiment, the chain extender is butanediol.

[0071]

[0053] In one embodiment, the polyol component comprises at least 50 weight%, or at least 60 weight%, or at least 70 weight%, or at least 80 weight%, or at least 90 weight%, or at least 95 weight%, or 100 weight%, of a chain extender, based upon the total weight of the polyol component.

[0072]

[0054] In some embodiments, the polyol component comprises a chain extender polyol having a weight average molecular weight below 500 g / mol and a polyol compound having a weight average molecular weight above 500 g / mol.

[0073]

[0055] In one embodiment, the polyol component consists of a chain extender compound having a weight average molecular weight below 500 g / mol, preferably below 150 g / mol, and preferably wherein the chain extender compound is 1,4-butanediol.

[0074]

[0056] [Further components]

[0075]

[0057] According to an embodiment, the polyurethane formulation may comprise a catalyst. The catalyst is not particularly limited, and any catalyst known in the art may be used. A catalyst may be included in order to improve the cure of the reaction mixture formed11 EU-51182

[0076] when the formulation is mixed. Suitable catalysts include blocked tertiary amine catalysts (such as DABCO®8154 available from Evonik), blocked formic acid catalysts (such as JEFFCAT®ZF-54 available from Huntsman Corporation), organometallic catalyst based on tin, bismuth and / or titanium, and a tertiary amine blow catalyst (such as POLYCAT®SA 5 available from Evonik).

[0077]

[0058] According to an embodiment, the polyurethane formulation may comprise a surfactant.

[0078] The surfactant is not particularly limited, and any surfactant known in the art may be used. In one embodiment, the surfactant may be a silicone-based surfactant. Examples of suitable commercially available surfactants include, but are not limited to Tegostab B8494, Tegostab B8905, Tegostab B8993, Tegostab B8948, Tegostab B8017, Tegostab B8930, Tegostab B8950, Tegostab B8960, VorasurfDC193, Vorasurf 5382, NiaxL1500, Niax L1550, Niax L1542, Niax UAX 7061, Niax UAX 6897, Niax UAX 6639, Niax UAX 7061, Tegostab B8466 and Tegostab B8416.

[0079]

[0059] Other additives may be present in the polyurethane formulation, such as UV stabilizers, fire retardants and the like, which are known in the art.

[0080]

[0060] In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane material and / or the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament does not contain a polystyrene component or a polystyrene derivative. In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane material and / or the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament contains less than 5 weight%, or less than 4 weight%, or less than 3 weight%, of a polystyrene component or a polystyrene derivative, based upon the total weight of the thermoplastic polyurethane material and / or the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament.

[0081]

[0061] In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane material and / or the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament does not contain a hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS). In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane material and / or the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament contains less than 5 weight%, or less than 4 weight%, or less than 3 weight%, of a hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS), based upon the total weight of the thermoplastic polyurethane material and / or the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament.

[0082]

[0062] In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane material and / or the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament does not contain a UV absorber. In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane material and / or the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament contains less than 5 weight%, or less than 4 weight%, or less than 312 EU-51182

[0083] weight%, of a UV absorber, based upon the total weight of the thermoplastic polyurethane material and / or the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament.

[0084]

[0063] [Properties of the thermoplastic polyurethane material and thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament]

[0085]

[0064] In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a hard block content of from 20% to 95%, or from 30% to 90%, or from 40% to 90%, or from 45% to 85%, or from 50% to 80%, or from 55% to 75%, or from 60% to 70%.

[0086]

[0065] Herein, term “hard block content” refers to 100 times the ratio of the amount (in parts by weight) of polyisocyanate compounds (e.g., MDI) and isocyanate-reactive compounds (e.g., chain extender polyols) having a molar mass below 500 g / mol (wherein polyol compounds having a molar mass above 500 g / mol incorporated into the polyisocyanate compounds / prepolymer are not taken into account) over the amount (in parts by weight) of all polyisocyanate compounds and all isocyanate-reactive compounds (e.g.., all polyols of any molar mass) used. The hard block content is expressed in %.

[0087]

[0066] In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a Shore D hardness of from 30 to 95 Shore D, or from 40 to 90 Shore D, or from 50 to 80 Shore D, or from 55 to 75 Shore D, or from 57 to 73, or from 60 to 70 Shore D. Herein, the Shore D hardness of the thermoplastic polyurethane material is measured using ASTM D2240-15 (2021).

[0088]

[0067] In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament has a breaking tenacity of at least 180 mN / tex, or at least 200 mN / tex, or at least 220 mN / tex, or at least 240 mN / tex, or from 180 mN / tex to 500 mN / tex, or from 200 mN / tex to 500 mN / tex, or from 220 mN / tex to 500 mN / tex, or from 240 mN / tex to 500 mN / tex.

[0089]

[0068] In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament has a tensile modulus of at least 750 mN / tex, or at least 800 mN / tex, or at least 850 mN / tex, or at least 900 mN / tex, or at least 950 mN / tex, or at least 1000 mN / tex, or at least 1050 mN / tex, or at least 1100 mN / tex, or from 750 mN / tex to 3000 mN / tex, or from 850 mN / tex to 3000 mN / tex, or from 1000 mN / tex to 3000 mN / tex, or from 1050 mN / tex to 3000 mN / tex.

[0090]

[0069] In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament has a linear density of from 10 dtex to 500 dtex, or from 50 dtex to 400 dtex, or from 100 dtex to 300 dtex, or from 150 dtex to 250 dtex, or from 180 dtex to 220 dtex.

[0091]

[0070] In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament has a breaking force of from 1 N to 20 N, or from 2 N to 10 N, or from 2 N to 8 N, or from 3 N to 7 N, or from 4 N to 6 N.13 EU-51182

[0092]

[0071] In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament has an elongation at break of below 80%, or below 70%, or below 60%, or below 50%, or below 40%, or from 1 % to 80 %, or from 1 % to 70 %, or from 5 % to 60 %, or from 10 % to 55 %, or from 15 % to 50 %, or from 20 % to 50 %, or from 25 % to 45 %.

[0093]

[0072] Herein, the tensile properties of the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament (breaking tenacity, tensile modulus (initial modulus), breaking force and elongation at break) are measured according to ASTM D2256-21. Specifically, the tensile properties are determined according to ASTM D2256-21 by using an Instron tensile tester model 5564. The tensile tester is equipped with a 1000 N load cell and pneumatic yam grips. A crosshead speed of 250 mm / min and a gauge length of 250 mm is used (the length of the multifilament specimen between the grips is 250 mm). Each specimen is measured 5 times (to obtain an average value) with a pretension of 5 mN / tex and a yarn twist of 60 turns per meter. Each multifilament specimen is made from 36 filaments.

[0094]

[0073] Herein, the linear density of the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament is measured by using a Zweigle L232. 50 meters of thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament is collected with a pretension of 5 mN / tex. The mass of the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament is measured on an analytical balance. Each specimen is measured 3 times to obtain an average value.

[0095]

[0074] In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament has a hot water shrinkage of below 20%, or below 18%, or below 16%, or from 1 % to 20 %, or from 1 % to 18 %, or from 1 % to 16 %. Herein, the hot water shrinkage of the thermoplastic polyurethane filament is measured according to ASTM D 4974-022.

[0096]

[0075] [A method of producing the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn]

[0097]

[0076] The thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn may be made via melt extruding. Any melt extruding process known in the art may be used, as long as it is suitable for making the multifilament yam. Melt extrusion is common in the art and the skilled person would know how to perform a suitable melt extrusion to form the multifilament described herein.

[0098]

[0077] The present disclosure describes a method of producing the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam, the method comprising the following steps: (i) providing a thermoplastic polyurethane material as described herein; and (ii) processing the thermoplastic polyurethane material to form the multifilament yarn.

[0099]

[0078] In one embodiment, the processing in step (ii) is melt extruding. Melt extruding involves melting the thermoplastic polyurethane material and then extruding the molten14 EU-51182

[0100] thermoplastic polyurethane material through a suitable extrusion die to form a multifilament. Parameters of the melt extruding are well known to the skilled person in the art and therefore specific details need not be included in the present disclosure.

[0101]

[0079] In one embodiment, the melt extrusion temperature in step (ii) may be less than the thermal decomposition temperature of the thermoplastic polyurethane material. The “the melt extrusion temperature in step (ii)” refers to the maximum temperature used in the melt extruding.

[0102]

[0080] In one embodiment, the melt extruding may be a melt spinning process. Melt spinning is a process in which the thermoplastic polyurethane material is introduced into an extruder, heated to the molten state in the extruder, and discharged in the molten state from a spinning nozzle (into the air or into a liquid) to form a multifilament. The positioning of the spinning nozzle is not limited but is preferably directed downwards so the filaments are discharged downwards. The discharged filaments are cooled and solidified while being made fine, and then taken up at a certain speed, to form a multifilament.

[0103]

[0081] In one embodiment, the method of producing the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam from the thermoplastic polyurethane material does not substantially decompose or chemically change the thermoplastic polyurethane material.

[0104]

[0082] [A textile product comprising the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn, and use of the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn in the production of a textile product]

[0105]

[0083] The multifilament yam described herein is particularly suited for a textile product.

[0106]

[0084] In one embodiment, the textile product is produced by knitting the multifilament yam into the product. In one embodiment, the textile product is a garment or footwear. In one embodiment, the textile product is a shoe component, such as a shoe upper. In one embodiment, the textile product is a fabric used in furniture or an automobile such as a car seat. In one embodiment, the textile product is a fabric used for reinforcement in a conveyor belt, composite material, hose or a cable.

[0107]

[0085] Thermoplastic polyurethane is recyclable, and therefore a textile product made from the multifilament yarn of the present disclosure may be recyclable.

[0108]

[0086] The present disclosure provides the use of the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam in the production of a textile product. As mentioned above, the multifilament yarn described herein is particularly suited for textile products.

[0109]

[0087] [Non-limiting embodiments]15 EU-51182

[0110]

[0088] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam for a textile product, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn is produced from a thermoplastic polyurethane material, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material is produced from a polyurethane formulation comprising:

[0111] (i) a polyisocyanate component comprising a polyisocyanate prepolymer, wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polyol compounds and one or more polyisocyanate compounds; and

[0112] (ii) a polyol component,

[0113] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a Shore D hardness of from 50 to 80 Shore D, as measured by ASTM D 2240.

[0114]

[0089] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam for a textile product, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn is produced from a thermoplastic polyurethane material, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material is produced from a polyurethane formulation comprising:

[0115] (i) a polyisocyanate component comprising a polyisocyanate prepolymer, wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polyol compounds and one or more polyisocyanate compounds; and

[0116] (ii) a polyol component,

[0117] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a Shore D hardness of from 50 to 80 Shore D, as measured by ASTM D 2240 and wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a hard block content of from 50% to 80%.

[0118]

[0090] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam for a textile product, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn is produced from a thermoplastic polyurethane material, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material is produced from a polyurethane formulation comprising:

[0119] (i) a polyisocyanate component comprising a polyisocyanate prepolymer; and (ii) a polyol component,

[0120] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a Shore D hardness of from 50 to 80 Shore D, as measured by ASTM D 2240,16 EU-51182

[0121] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a hard block content of from 50% to 80%, and

[0122] wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more poly ether polyol compounds and one or more aromatic polyisocyanate compounds.

[0123]

[0091] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam for a textile product, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn is produced from a thermoplastic polyurethane material, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material is produced from a polyurethane formulation comprising:

[0124] (i) a polyisocyanate component comprising a polyisocyanate prepolymer; and (ii) a polyol component,

[0125] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a Shore D hardness of from 50 to 80 Shore D, as measured by ASTM D 2240,

[0126] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a hard block content of from 50% to 80%, and

[0127] wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polytetrahydrofuran (pTHF)-based polyols and one or more methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI)-based compounds, preferably wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polytetrahydrofuran (pTHF)-based polyols and MDI.

[0128]

[0092] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam for a textile product, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn is produced from a thermoplastic polyurethane material, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material is produced from a polyurethane formulation comprising:

[0129] (i) a polyisocyanate component comprising a polyisocyanate prepolymer; and (ii) a polyol component,

[0130] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a Shore D hardness of from 50 to 80 Shore D, as measured by ASTM D 2240,

[0131] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a hard block content of from 50% to 80%, and

[0132] wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polypropylene glycol (PPG)-based polyols and one or more methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI)-17 EU-51182

[0133] based compounds, preferably wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polypropylene glycol (PPG)-based polyols and MDI.

[0134]

[0093] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam for a textile product, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn is produced from a thermoplastic polyurethane material, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material is produced from a polyurethane formulation comprising:

[0135] (i) a polyisocyanate component comprising a polyisocyanate prepolymer, wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polyol compounds and one or more polyisocyanate compounds; and

[0136] (ii) a polyol component,

[0137] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a Shore D hardness of from 50 to 80 Shore D, as measured by ASTM D 2240 and wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a hard block content of from 50% to 80%,

[0138] wherein the polyol component comprises a chain extender compound having a molar mass below 500 g / mol.

[0139]

[0094] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam for a textile product, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn is produced from a thermoplastic polyurethane material, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material is produced from a polyurethane formulation comprising:

[0140] (i) a polyisocyanate component comprising a polyisocyanate prepolymer, wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polyol compounds and one or more polyisocyanate compounds; and

[0141] (ii) a polyol component,

[0142] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a Shore D hardness of from 50 to 80 Shore D, as measured by ASTM D 2240,

[0143] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a hard block content of from 50% to 80%, and

[0144] wherein the polyol component comprises a chain extender compound comprising 1,4- butanediol.

[0145]

[0095] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn for a textile product, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam is produced from a thermoplastic polyurethane material, wherein the18 EU-51182

[0146] thermoplastic polyurethane material is produced from a polyurethane formulation comprising:

[0147] (i) a polyisocyanate component comprising a polyisocyanate prepolymer; and (ii) a polyol component,

[0148] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a Shore D hardness of from 50 to 80 Shore D, as measured by ASTM D 2240,

[0149] wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a hard block content of from 50% to 80%,

[0150] wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more poly ether polyol compounds and one or more aromatic polyisocyanate compounds, and

[0151] wherein the polyol component comprises a chain extender compound having a molar mass below 500 g / mol.

[0152]

[0096] [Examples]

[0153]

[0097] The present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the Examples.

[0154] The present disclosure is not limited to the following Examples.

[0155]

[0098] The linear density, hot water shrinkage and tensile properties of the filaments used in the examples were determined as described above.

[0156]

[0099] Example 1

[0157]

[0100] TPU1 was used as the thermoplastic polyurethane material. TPU1 has a Shore D hardness of about 65 (measured by ASTM D 2240) and a hard block content of about 65%. TPU 1 was produced from a polyurethane formulation containing a polyisocyanate prepolymer (formed from MDI, pTHFlOOO and pTHF2000) and 1,4-butanediol. TPU1 was formed into filaments by melt extrusion (melt spinning). The tensile properties and linear density of the resultant filaments were measured and are shown in Table 1.

[0158]

[0101] Comparative Example 1

[0159]

[0102] TPU2 was used as the thermoplastic polyurethane material. TPU2 was produced from a polyurethane formulation containing MDI, pTHFlOOO, pTHF2000 and 1,4-butanediol (no polyisocyanate prepolymer was formed or present). It was attempted to form TPU2 into filaments by melt extrusion (melt spinning). However, due to unstable production process and observed strong dripping, no filaments could be produced via melt spinning.

[0160]

[0103] Comparative Example 2

[0161]

[0104] TPU3 was used as the thermoplastic polyurethane material. TPU3 has a Shore D hardness of about 65 (measured by ASTM D 2240). TPU3 was produced from a polyurethane formulation containing MDI-based polyisocyanate, pTHFlOOO and 1,4-19 EU-51182

[0162] butanediol (no polyisocyanate prepolymer was formed or present). TPU3 was formed into filaments by melt extrusion (melt spinning). The tensile properties and linear density of the resultant filaments were measured and are shown in Table 1.

[0163]

[0105] Comparative Example 3

[0164]

[0106] TPU4 was used as the thermoplastic polyurethane material. TPU4 has a Shore D hardness of about 65 (measured by ASTM D 2240). TPU4 was produced from a polyurethane formulation containing MDI-based polyisocyanate, polyester polyol based on adipic acid and 1,4-butanediol, and 1,4-butanediol (no polyisocyanate prepolymer was formed or present). TPU4 was formed into filaments by melt extrusion (melt spinning). The tensile properties and linear density of the resultant filaments were measured and are shown in Table 1.

[0165]

[0107] Table 1

[0166]

[0167]

[0108] In Table 1: LD (linear density); BT (breaking tenacity); BF (breaking force); EAB (elongation at break); TM (tensile modulus); HWS (hot water shrinkage); - indicates no result. The tensile properties, linear density and HWS were measured as discussed herein.

[0168]

[0109] As clear from Table 1, the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament of Example 1 is superior in terms of many physical properties compared to Comparative Examples 2 and 3, as well as having a lower linear density. In this regard, the filaments of Example 120 EU-51182

[0169] advantageously had lower elongation at break, higher tensile modulus and lower hot water shrinkage, despite lower linear density.

[0170]

[0110] A comparison of Example 1 and Comparative Example 1 shows that the difference in processability was due to the use of a polyisocyanate prepolymer. Example 1 was also the only example which had an excellent stable production process, meaning substantially no filaments broke during production of the filaments.

[0171]

[0111] The results thus show that standard thermoplastic polyurethane materials with similar hardness, but without being produced using polyisocyanate prepolymers, exhibit significantly higher filament breakage during production as well as inferior physical properties.

[0172]

[0112] All ranges described herein are exemplary in nature and include any and all values in between. The terms “substantially”, “approximately” and “about” used herein are interchangeable and refer to a measurement that includes the stated measurement and any measurements reasonably close to the stated measurement. Measurements that are reasonably close to the stated measurement deviate from the stated measurement by a reasonably small amount as understood and readily ascertained by individuals having ordinary skill in the relevant art. Such deviations may be attributable to measurement error, differences in measurement and / or manufacturing equipment calibrations, human error in reading and / or setting measurements, minor adjustments made to optimize performance and / or structural parameters in view of differences in measurement associated with other components, particular implementation scenarios, imprecise adjustment and / or manipulation of objects by a person or machine. In the event it is determined that individuals having ordinary skill in the relevant art would not readily ascertain values for such reasonably small differences, the terms “about” and “approximately” can be understood to mean plus or minus 10% of the stated value.

[0173]

[0113] Throughout the description and claims, the terms take the meanings explicitly defined herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0174]

[0114] The phrases “in one embodiment”, “in an embodiment” and “in some embodiments” etc.

[0175] as used herein do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment(s), though they may. Furthermore, the phrases “in another embodiment” and “in some other embodiments” as used herein do not necessarily refer to a different embodiment, though they may. All embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to be combinable.21 EU-51182

[0176]

[0115] The terms “comprises” and “comprising” mean to include but not limited to, such that further features may be present. The terms may also mean to consist of or consist essentially of.

[0177]

[0116] All references and test methods cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

Claims

22 EU-51182CLAIMS1. A thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam for a textile product, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam is produced from a thermoplastic polyurethane material, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material is produced from a polyurethane formulation comprising:(i) a polyisocyanate component comprising a polyisocyanate prepolymer, wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polyol compounds and one or more polyisocyanate compounds; and(ii) a polyol component.

2. A thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn according to Claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a Shore D hardness of from 40 to 90 Shore D, preferably from 50 to 80 Shore D, as measured by ASTM D 2240.

3. A thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane material has a hard block content of from 40% to 90%, preferably from 50% to 80%.

4. A thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn according to any preceding claim, wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more poly ether polyol compounds, preferably one or more polytetrahydrofuran (pTHF)-based polyols or polypropylene glycol (PPG)-based polyols.

5. A thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn according to any preceding claim, wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more aromatic polyisocyanate compounds, preferably one or more methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI)-based compounds, preferably MDI.

6. A thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn according to any preceding claim, wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polytetrahydrofuran (pTHF)-based polyols and one or more methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI)-based compounds, preferably wherein the polyisocyanate23 EU-51182prepolymer is produced from one or more polytetrahydrofuran (pTHF)-based polyols and MDI.

7. A thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn according to any of Claims 1-5, wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polypropylene glycol (PPG)-based polyols and one or more methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI)- based compounds, preferably wherein the polyisocyanate prepolymer is produced from one or more polypropylene glycol (PPG)-based polyols and MDI.

8. A thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn according to any preceding claim, wherein the polyol component comprises a chain extender compound having a molar mass below 500 g / mol.

9. A thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yarn according to Claim 8, wherein the chain extender compound is any one selected from ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, methylpentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, and a combination thereof.

10. A textile product comprising the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam as defined in any preceding claim.

11. Use of the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam as defined in any one of Claims 1-9 in the production of a textile product.

12. A method of producing the thermoplastic polyurethane multifilament yam as defined in any one of Claims 1-9, the method comprising the following steps:(i) providing a thermoplastic polyurethane material as defined in any one of Claims 1-9; and(ii) processing the thermoplastic polyurethane material to form the multifilament yarn.

13. Amethod according to Claim 12, wherein the processing in step ii) is melt extruding.

14. Amethod according to Claim 13, wherein the melt extruding is a melt spinning process.24 EU-5118215. A method according to any one of Claims 12-14, wherein the polyurethane material is obtained by reacting the components of the polyurethane formulation as defined in any one of Claims 1-9.

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