TPE
offer elastomer behavior at room temperature and diversity through combinations of different thermoplastic components, ideal for versatile industrial applications.
Abbreviation
TPE
Molecular formula
Variable
CAS no.
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General description
Thermoplastic elastomers are plastics that behave similarly to conventional elastomers at room temperature. When heat is applied, the thermoplastics can be deformed. Since various combinations of different thermoplastic components are produced, this results in a wide variety of TPE plastics, which are classified according to their chemical and morphological structure according to DIN EN ISO 18064.
Thermoplastic polyamide polymers (TPA) have a hard component made of polyamide 6 or polyamide 12 monomers, which form blocks in the polymer chain and alternate with soft components of polyether or polyester units. TPAs are block copolymers.
Thermoplastic polyester polymers (TPCs) are multi-block copolymers in which various polyester units alternate with each other or polyester units alternate with polyether units.
Thermoplastic styrene polymers (TPS) are copolymers of styrene-isoprene or styrene-butadiene units, synthesized as graft copolymers or block polymers. Graft copolymers with a very high proportion of the soft component styrene produce an extremely impact-resistant plastic.
Thermoplastic polyurethane polymers (TPU) are copolymers whose hard components, in the form of urethanes, are combined with polyethers or polyesters. TPUs are the basis for polyester-urethane rubbers.
Polymer blends, also known as polymer alloys, are mixtures of plastics. Polyolefin blends belong to the polymer blends TPO and TPV. TPO are uncrosslinked, thermoplastic polymer blends, while TPVs are partially crosslinked blends of polyolefins.
TPE offer
Reversible deformation
TPEs can be stretched significantly and return to their original shape, making them ideal for flexible applications.
Easy processing
Thanks to their thermoplastic nature, TPEs can be processed using standard techniques such as injection molding, saving time and money.
Diverse customization options
By varying the mixing ratio and components, TPEs can be produced in different degrees of hardness and for numerous applications.
Properties of TPE
Thermal Properties
Thermoplastic elastomers are resistant over a wide temperature range from -30°C to +140°C. This thermal resistance makes them particularly suitable for diverse applications requiring varying thermal properties. However, it should be noted that TPEs can lose their elasticity at higher temperatures. Another advantage is the ability to use specific blending ratios and additives to create low-smoke and halogen-free, flame-retardant TPE variants.
Mechanical Properties
Mechanically, thermoplastic elastomers offer excellent fatigue strength and tear resistance. These properties ensure the durability and reliability of the materials in demanding applications. Their low specific gravity contributes to sustainability through reduced material consumption, while their good abrasion resistance enables them to be used on stressed surfaces and profiles. A striking feature is their adaptability to various hardness levels, ranging from very soft to very hard, simplifying their use in diverse applications.
Chemical Properties
Chemically, thermoplastic elastomers score highly due to their excellent resistance to chemicals and weathering. This resistance makes them ideal for outdoor applications and industrial use. Their excellent colorability allows for customized product designs, which is advantageous for many applications. However, some TPEs are sensitive to certain solvents, making careful material selection crucial for the specific application.
Specific Properties
Specific properties of TPEs include their good flexibility at low temperatures, which opens up additional application possibilities in colder environments. Thermoplastic elastomers also exhibit good electrical insulation properties, which can be influenced by adjusting the mixing ratio and adding additives. Non-polar materials, in particular, exhibit excellent insulation properties and thus offer a good solution for electronic applications.
Processing instructions
Application areas of TPE
Automotive industry: Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are widely used in the automotive industry due to their flexibility and rubber-like properties. They are used in seals, windshield wipers, and bumpers, where they combine the durability and conformability of rubber with the advantages of thermoplastic processing.
Medical technology: In medical technology, TPEs are valued for their biocompatibility and flexibility. These properties make them ideal for use in medical devices and assistive devices that require gentle and safe interaction with the human body.
Consumer goods: TPEs are also widely used in consumer goods, particularly in the production of toys, which benefit from the material's durable nature and safe, pleasant feel.
In summary, TPEs play a key role in numerous industries due to their versatile properties and impress with both their technical and economic efficiency.
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