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Thermoplastic elastomers are very versatile for industry due to their sealing properties, rubbery feel, as well as shock and vibration absorption. As such, it is easily found in automotive, medical, household and even pet products.
Also known by the acronym TPE, thermoplastic has particular characteristics that need to be understood by those who need to use it. With this in mind, we've put together this comprehensive guide to cover the concept, types, processing and other information of interest.
Join us and find out more about thermoplastic elastomers!
Thermoplastic elastomers are polymers that combine the flexibility of conventional elastomers with the processability of thermoplastics.
Before we go any further, let's reinforce two concepts:
Considering these characteristics, thermoplastic elastomers are easily melted, molded and recycled without losing their elastic properties.
Depending on the formulation, they can offer different degrees of softness, chemical, thermal and mechanical resistance. They are therefore used for a wide range of purposes in the manufacture of parts for the automotive, electronics, medical and consumer goods sectors.
We know the concept of thermoplastic elastomers, right? But in addition to this category, polymers can also be classified as thermosets. The main difference between them lies in the way they respond to heat and the molding process.
We have seen that thermoplastics are polymers that soften when heated and harden when cooled, without undergoing any chemical changes. This characteristic allows them to be molded, recycled and reused several times, making them highly versatile for industry. Materials such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE) and TPEs themselves belong to this category.
Thermosets , on the other hand, undergo a chemical curing process during manufacture, creating cross-links between their molecules. This makes the material irreversible - in other words, once molded, it cannot be melted and reshaped. Due to their high density, they tend to be heavier.
Understanding the difference between thermoplastics and thermosets is essential to choosing the right material, guaranteeing the necessary suitability, durability and sustainability.
We've seen that you can also find the material by the acronym "TPE", which stands for Thermoplastic Elastomer. In other words, TPE stands for thermoplastic elastomer.
TPEs are subdivided into groups according to their particular characteristics. The main ones are as follows:
Below you'll find details on the most common TPE, as well as the other types of thermoplastic elastomer. Check it out!
Traditional TPE combines rubber-like elasticity with the ease of processing of thermoplastics. The material is valued for applications requiring flexibility, softness to the touch and impact resistance.
TPEs are often used in hydraulic seals, household utensils, toys, appliances and medical products. Their adhesion capacity and compliance with regulations such as ANVISA and FDA allow them to be used in applications that are safe for contact with food and skin.
Advantages:
TPV is a thermoplastic elastomer that combines elastomeric polymers with polyolefins, resulting in a material that is resistant to heat and mechanical fatigue. It retains the flexibility of rubber, but with the possibility of being molded like a thermoplastic.
The material is used in the automotive industry - especially in components exposed to high temperatures, such as air ducts, glass profiles, window seals and dashboard buttons.
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Thermoplastic rubber is a versatile material that is widely used in the manufacture of shoe outsoles, toys and pet items. Its composition allows it to be molded in different hardnesses and colors, offering good resistance to abrasion.
TR is up to 40% lighter than vulcanized rubber, making it ideal for applications requiring comfort and flexibility.
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TPU stands out for its exceptional resistance to impacts, abrasion, oils and greases. Its balance between flexibility and rigidity makes it a high-performance material for industrial and consumer goods applications.
It is widely used in the manufacture of cart and skateboard wheels, sports shoes, cell phone covers and components for the mining and oil and gas sectors.
Advantages:
PVC is a versatile and resistant material that is frequently used in the footwear industry due to its flexibility, lightness and ease of pigmentation. It can therefore be found in the manufacture of slippers, casual sneakers, tread soles and bags, among others.
This thermoplastic elastomer can be found in different formulations, such as crystal PVC (with a glassy appearance) and micro-expanded PVC, which reduces the weight of parts without compromising durability.
Advantages:
The attributes of thermoplastic elastomers vary according to their composition and type. But some characteristics are essential to guarantee the material's superior performance. Find out more about its sealing qualities, rubbery feel and impact and vibration absorption!
TPEs have excellent compressibility and elastic recovery, allowing them to return to their original shape even after being pressed. This makes them interesting for applications where sealing against liquids, gases and particles is indispensable.
In the automotive industry, for example, thermoplastic elastomers are used in sealing profiles for doors, windows and engine compartments. The purpose of their application is to reduce noise for occupants, seal the interior of the car against dust and prevent water ingress.
Unlike vulcanized rubbers, which can lose elasticity over time, TPEs maintain their sealing properties even after repeated compression and deformation cycles.
The soft touch finish of the thermoplastic elastomers provides a superior ergonomic experience, increasing comfort and grip when handling objects.
This attribute means that they are used in hand tool handles, toothbrushes, remote controls, ergonomic packaging and the soles of sports shoes.
In electronics and medical devices, for example, the TPE coating improves the footprint and reduces the risk of accidental slippage.
In addition to tactile comfort, the rubbery feel of the material also improves the perception of the product's quality. That's why many brands use it to differentiate themselves in the market.
Another outstanding feature of TPEs is their ability to cushion impacts and reduce vibrations. This makes them very useful in applications that require the dissipation of mechanical energy.
This property stems from its molecular structure, which allows the material to absorb shocks and distribute the applied force evenly.
By way of example, thermoplastic elastomers are used in sports shoes in the midsoles to improve cushioning and comfort when walking or running.
Industrial equipment, heavy machinery and power tools also benefit from the vibration-absorbing properties of TPEs. After all, the material helps to minimize wear on components and increase operational safety.
We have seen that thermoplastic elastomers can be stretched and then returned to their original shape, withstanding deformation without breaking. To do this, they are molded using processes such as injection, extrusion and blow molding; see details:
This diversity of processing makes the material a versatile option for different industrial applications.
What's more, TPEs don't require lengthy processes - such as vulcanizing rubber. And they are fully recyclable, making them a sustainable alternative to vulcanized rubbers.
Too many acronyms and similar names? Then check out this list to differentiate the terms related to the material once and for all:
Now, how about continuing your discovery of the material? At FCC, you'll find a wide variety of TPEs for industry. After all, we are the most diversified producer of thermoplastic elastomers in Latin America.
FCC is a benchmark in innovation and technology, pioneering in materials science. On the market since 1969, we offer a complete range of thermoplastic elastomers to meet the demands of industry with high quality, performance and sustainability.
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