Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) is an elastic polymer whose mechanical properties are mainly related to the hardness of the material itself (ranging from Shore A to Shore D) and its characteristics in different environments or working conditions. TPE materials can be divided into many types.
1. Polyether block amide (PEBA)
It is an advanced polyamide elastomer with good properties such as elasticity, flexibility, low temperature recovery, abrasion resistance and chemical resistance. Suitable for applications in high-tech products.
2. Styrene thermoplastic rubber (SBS, SEBS)
It is a styrenic thermoplastic polymer. SBS and SEBS elastomers are most commonly used to produce various products that require elasticity, soft touch and aesthetics. They are suitable for use in custom formulations designed for specific products. Compared with SBS, SEBS performs better in certain specific applications because it better resists the oxidation of ultraviolet rays, and its working temperature can even reach 120°C; SEBS can be overmolded and thermoplastic (PP, SAN, PS, ABS, PC-ABS, PMMA, PA) are mixed to meet the design requirements of aesthetics or functionality.
3. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)
It is a polymer belonging to the polyester (polyester TPU) and polyether (polyether TPU) families. It is an elastomer with high tear resistance, abrasion resistance and cut resistance. ). The product hardness can range from 70A to 70D Shore. In addition, TPU has excellent resilience and can maintain good characteristics even under extreme temperatures.
4. Thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV)
The composition of the polymer includes elastomer vulcanized rubber (or cross-linked vulcanized rubber). This vulcanization/crosslinking process makes TPV have excellent thermoplasticity, elasticity and flexibility.
