Publication: Apr 20, 2021 Last updated: Aug 29, 2025

Less waste and more convenience with KRAIBURG TPE


Enjoying coffee without feeling guilty: Reusable coffee cup lid made of TPE

Sustainability, convenience and enjoyment are now no longer contradictions – and manufacturers are responding: for example Cadios GmbH, a German start-up business that has developed the first reusable lid for coffee mugs and cups. The conically shaped lid made of TPE fits onto most common household cups and with its durability can make a lasting contribution to waste reduction. The “Udo” lid is available in many colors and can be customized on request.

With the July 3, 2021 deadline approaching, there is still high demand for smart solutions in the takeaway food sector that are as sustainable as possible. To protect the oceans and the environment, a ban on the sale of single-use goods will be coming into effect on that date. The ban applies to single-use products such as drinking straws, swizzle sticks and cotton swabs, tableware and disposable cups. There are already plenty of alternative products, but most of them involve complete replacement with new products such as recyclable coffee cups. To solve this problem, the German company Cadios has developed the first reusable coffee cup lid: “Udo” is made in Germany in a climate-neutral process. In addition, the TPE compound, also produced in Germany, can be returned to the technical production cycle through in-process recycling.

Since the creators of “Udo” regard sustainability and quality as the central aims of their work, their materials choice was in favor of a compound from KRAIBURG TPE’s portfolio. The halogen-free THERMOLAST® K product is particularly suitable for applications in everyday use and provides appropriate durability without losing its high quality over an extended period of time. The compound also has a soft-touch surface, making it very comfortable to hold but still providing a non-slip grip. The TPE can be custom-colored in any way you like and customized with a company logo using laser technology. Excellent mechanical properties and good compression set also meet users’ requirements. An overview of additional advantages of the compound used:

In-process recycling is possible
Dishwasher safe
Outstandingly good grip due to excellent haptic properties
High-temperature resistance
Suitable for multi-component injection molding
Conformity with Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011
Raw materials conformity US FDA CFR 21
Conformity with DIN EN 71-3


“We set high standards for the materials that are used for our design products, because we want to supply our customers with an honest, sustainable and high-quality product. KRAIBURG TPE’s compound scored with its whole package. The material meets our expectations and helps to supply our customers with genuine added value. After all, hot drinks taste best when you drink them from your favorite cup,” says Carina Frings, Head of Marketing & Design, Public Relations at Cadios.

 

This THERMOLAST® K product is translucent and available all over Europe.  

KRAIBURG TPE Quick Facts
 

  • Founded in 2001 as an independent business unit of the KRAIBURG Group 
  • HQ & Production Site: Waldkraiburg / Germany
  • Regional HQ & Production site: Kuala Lumpur / Malaysia, Atlanta / USA
  • Products: Thermoplastic Elastomer Compounds
  • Brands: THERMOLAST®, COPEC®, HIPEX®, and For Tec E®
  • Markets: EMEA, APAC, Americas
  • Employees: 660

Download press release

In our media package you will find comprehensive information, graphics and pictures on the subject.

20.04.2021 MEDIA PACKAGE FOR Enjoying coffee without feeling guilty: Reusable coffee cup lid made of TPE

Latest News

Sustainable Materials for Smart Trash Bin Applications
16.12.2025 Sustainable Materials for Smart Trash Bin Applications How can we ensure a high-performance TPE that delivers both quality and sustainability? The THERMOLAST® R series provides the answer—offering smart trash bins enhanced with up to 48% recycled content, safe soft-touch surfaces, and durable odor-sealing gaskets, buttons, and base pads. It’s a modern solution that combines functionality with sustainability in everyday recycling. read more
Material Innovations Supporting Safer Water Storage
09.12.2025 Material Innovations Supporting Safer Water Storage Looking for TPE that is suitable for seals, gaskets, and fluid components in cold and warm water systems? TF8ONG-NTRL ensures low odor, high hygiene, and compliance with global water safety standards for clean water from source to tap. read more
Redefining Ultrasound Device Performance with Healthcare TPE Compounds
02.12.2025 Redefining Ultrasound Device Performance with Healthcare TPE Compounds What materials ensure durability, safety, and ergonomics in ultrasound devices? Our medical-grade TPE, THERMOLAST® H provides soft-touch comfort, strong adhesion, sterilizability, and design flexibility for grips, seals, and control components in modern diagnostic equipment. read more
Driving Fuel Efficiency with THERMOLAST® K for Active Grill Shutters
25.11.2025 Driving Fuel Efficiency with THERMOLAST® K for Active Grill Shutters What makes Active Grille Shutters (AGS) effective at boosting vehicle fuel efficiency? By reducing drag and managing airflow, advanced TPE material, THERMOLAST® K provides lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant solutions for reliable AGS performance in all driving conditions. read more