Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)

What is Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)?

◆ Thermoplastic elastomers are thermoplastics with an elastomeric component that makes them soft and flexible. Although they can have a rubbery feel and are sometimes called thermoplastic rubber, they are not made out of rubber. Unlike thermoset rubbers, these plastic compounds can be recycled. Thermoplastic elastomers can be formed into parts in the same way that other thermoplastics can be, so a "soft" TPE can be molded or extruded onto a "hard" thermoplastic in one process. This "co-molding" or "overmolding" creates design freedom that is not possible with thermoset rubbers. In addition, processing is much more efficient. 

UNINKO Available Types of Thermoplastic Elastomer

◆ Styrenic Block Copolymers TPE compounds (TPE-S), UNINKO UTS1700 Series

TPE-S compounds are made from styrene and an elastomeric part connected in alternating blocks. Styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) is a common type. A related polymer is styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS), which is characterized by much improved heat resistance, mechanical properties, chemical resistance, oxidation resistance, and outdoor weathering.

◆ Thermoplastic Polyolefins TPO compounds (TPE-O or TPO), UNINKO UTO1800 Series

TPO or TPE-O compounds are blends of polypropylene (PP) and uncrosslinked EPDM rubber; in some cases, a low degree of cross-linking is present to boost heat resistance and compression set properties. They are used in applications requiring greater toughness than conventional PP copolymers, such as automotive bumpers and dashboards. The properties are restricted to the high end of the hardness scale, typically >80 Shore A and with limited elastomeric properties.

◆ Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPE-V or TPV), UNINKO UTV1900 Series

TPV or TPE-V compounds are dynamically vulcanized or crosslinked TPO compounds during compounding, which give TPV improved properties such as high compression set and resistance to heat deformation. TPV compounds are experiencing strong growth as replacements for EPDM in automotive seals, pipe seals, and other applications where heat resistance up to 120°C is required. Shore hardness values typically range from 45A to 45D. 

◆ Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPE-U or TPU), UNINKO UTU2000 Series

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU or TPE-U) compounds are based on polyester or polyether urethane monomers and are commonly used in applications that require excellent tear strength, abrasion resistance, and flex fatigue resistance. End-use applications include shoe soles, industrial belting, ski boots, and wire and cable. Hardness is restricted to the high end of the Shore A scale, typically >80 Shore A.

◆ Thermoplastic copolyesters (TPE-E or COPE or TEEE), UNINKO UTE2100 Series

TPEE is produced by copolymerizing 1,4-butanediol, polytetra-methylene glycol, and DMT or PTA via condensation, and is used where increased chemical and heat resistance up to 140°C are needed. They also exhibit good fatigue resistance and tear strength, so they are used in automotive applications such as blow-molded boots and bellows, wire and cable, and industrial hose. Again, hardness is restricted to the high end, typically between 85A and 75D.

Why UNINKO Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs)?

→ The Material Advantages:

◇ Design flexibility and broader range in product density

◇ Lower fabrication costs and per-piece finished part cost

◇ Shorter processing times and easier processing

◇ Lower consumption of energy

◇ Scrap is fully recyclable

◇ Better control of product quality and consistency of product

◇ Can be blow molded and thermoformed

◇ More environmentally friendly