In the TPE elastomer industry, TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) is used as the abbreviation for all thermoplastic elastomers. In a broad sense, TPU, TPEE, TPV, TPO, and so on all belong to TPE. In a narrow sense, TPE is a styrene based thermoplastic elastomer. It is a material made by blending and modifying SEBS (Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene Block Copolymer Hydrogenated Styrene Butadiene Styrene Block Copolymer) as the substrate. It has the thermal plasticity of plastic and the elasticity of rubber. The appearance of TPE is natural, semi transparent or transparent round or cylindrical particles, with a sub surface effect. The density is generally between 0.9-1.1 grams per cubic centimeter.

TPE Elastomer Properties

The microstructure of TPE materials determines their properties and determines their special position and role in the plastic industry.

The TPE material structure does not contain unsaturated bonds, and its properties are relatively stable. It has good temperature resistance (operating temperature range -50-100 ℃), aging resistance, chemical resistance, and solvent resistance.

The TPE material structure contains rigid ethylene styrene chains in a glass state at room temperature, giving the material a fixed shape to ensure its performance in use; The material structure contains butadiene flexible chain segments with high elasticity at room temperature, giving the material a comfortable soft touch and elasticity.

During the production process, TPE materials do not introduce heavy metals or toxic phthalate plasticizers, and comply with ROHS, REACH, EN71, PAHS, and FDA environmental testing. It is the best material to replace PVC.

★. TPE material adopts direct injection molding, which is easy to process, short molding cycle, and easy to recycle waste products. It is an ideal material to replace rubber and silicone.

Through changes in formula and ratio, TPE materials can provide materials with diverse physical properties and hardness to meet the most suitable usage requirements of different products.

TPE elastomer processing technology

TPE elastomer materials can be processed and formed by injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, salivation, pouring, and other methods. There is a significant difference in processing temperature depending on the hardness and physical properties of TPE. The general processing temperature is between 110-230 ℃. The processing temperature varies depending on the processing method, TPE material formula, and equipment. Therefore, it is recommended to consult the supplier for the recommended processing temperature, pressure, and other parameters of the purchased TPE material when purchasing plastic raw materials.

Application of TPE Elastomer

★ Single material application

Direct injection molding production of soft rubber toys, luggage accessories, cushioning and shock absorption components. Utilizing the easy processing, good softness, and good elasticity of TPE materials, we can meet the needs of customers.

★ Dual material and multi material applications.

TPE is highly favored in multi material applications. Wrapping a layer of TPE with a comfortable feel on the product can make it more contemporary. Its comfortable touch and excellent physical properties are highly popular among consumers. When multiple materials are co molded, it can firmly bond plastics such as ABS, PC, PA, PP, PS, etc. TPE/TPR can adjust various physical properties and hardness, allowing designers to unleash unlimited design inspiration. Application cases: tool handles, sports equipment, wheels, electronic materials, daily necessities, etc.

★ Food contactor tools.

Complies with food contact hygiene, is resistant to high and low temperatures, and can meet the comprehensive requirements of food utensils. TPE has a comfortable touch, anti slip, and is easy to match into colorful colors, making it easy to unleash design inspiration and making life more colorful. Application cases: tableware handles, tableware spoons, forks, lids, non slip coasters, refrigerator ice grids, etc.

★ Medical devices

TPE conforms to the trend of green environmental protection and the hygiene of medical food, with excellent drug resistance, good touch, and increased product functionality

And comfort. Application cases; Medical tubes, disposable infusion sets, gas masks, bottle stoppers, ear wash balls, etc.

★ Automotive accessories

TPE material can withstand high and low temperatures (-50-100 ℃), excellent flowability, oil resistance, excellent flexibility, and excellent environmental protection, meeting customers' extremely high weather resistance needs for products. Application cases: Tire bumpers, handles, steering wheels, dust covers, etc. TPE is also used as a material for popular car floor mats in the United States.

★ Extruded products

TPE has good UV resistance and chemical resistance, and a simple extrusion process, making it an ideal new material to replace traditional rubber and PVC. Application cases: earphone cable, USB cable, cable, building sealing strip, door and window adhesive strip, anti-collision buffer strip, etc.

★ Special soft products

TPE/meets the hygiene requirements for human skin contact and is recognized as a green and environmentally friendly material. The high transparency, high tensile strength, high elongation, and flexible touch (similar to the intimate touch of the skin) are highly sought after by consumers. Experience the soft and intimate touch brought by TPE/TPR materials, with meticulous care. Application cases: special soft toys, women's breast pads, adult products, etc.