The varioustypes of elastomers are easily found in a variety of everyday items - from toothbrushes to construction components. This is because their characteristics are suited to different industries, generating products with good performance and cost-effectiveness.
In this article, we'll look at the main types of elastomers, as well as their properties and advantages. Check it out!
What are elastomers?
Elastomers are a class of polymers characterized by their high elasticity and ability to return to their original shape even after being deformed.
These properties are possible due to its flexible molecular structure. In it, long chains intertwine, allowing significant deformations without compromising the integrity of the material.
We can therefore say that elastomers work in a similar way to rubber, as they offer excellent shock absorption, sealing and vibration insulation properties.
What are the types of elastomers?
There are two categories of elastomers: thermoplastics and thermosets. Thermoplastic thermoplastic elastomers combine flexibility and processability and can be molded repeatedly with heat. Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) are used in footwear, medical parts, packaging and electronics.
Thermoset elastomers, on the other hand , have a highly cross-linked structure (i.e. firmly bonded) and are therefore irreversible after curing. They are vulcanized to obtain greater thermal and mechanical resistance and are widely used in tires, seals and automotive parts.
In short, while thermosets offer greater chemical and thermal resistance, thermoplastics are recyclable and easier to process.
What are the main types of thermoplastic elastomers?
Thermoplastic elastomers have a wide range of applications on the market. At FCC, the most diversified producer of the material in Latin America, we produce the most commonly used types. Check out the details on each one below!
Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)
TPEs combine rubber-like elasticity with the processability of thermoplastics. This combination allows the material to be melted, molded and recycled without losing its elastic properties.
Properties and advantages
Elasticity and flexibility: high deformation and recovery capacity, essential for seals and components that undergo mechanical stress;
Easy to process: it can be molded by injection, extrusion and blow molding, making it possible to manufacture parts with complex designs and precise finishes;
Recyclability: as a thermoplastic material, TPE can be reprocessed several times, contributing to sustainability;
Softtouch: provides a soft, non-slip, pleasant and ergonomic feel to the touch;
Versatility: available in various hardnesses and colors, TPE can be adapted to the specific demands of each application, from household jars to medical devices.
Thermoplastic Vulcanizate is obtained by dynamically vulcanizing elastomers in a thermoplastic matrix, usually polyolefins. The process combines the resilience of rubber with the processability of plastics, generating a material with high thermal and chemical resistance.
Properties and advantages
Thermal resistance: withstands high temperatures, up to approximately 135°C - essential for applications in high-temperature environments;
Superior durability: the vulcanized structure provides a long service life, reducing the need for maintenance and component replacement;
Chemical resistance: high tolerance to solvents and aggressive chemicals, making it ideal for harsh industrial environments;
Processability: despite its robustness, TPV can be molded using traditional methods, which facilitates its integration into production processes.
Applications
Air ducts;
Hoods;
Automotive carpets;
Bushings;
Car dashboard buttons;
Glass profiles;
Among others.
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)
Thermoplastic Polyurethane has a strong resistance to impacts, abrasion, oils and greases, while maintaining excellent flexibility. This combination makes the elastomer desirable for applications that require robustness and elasticity.
Properties and advantages
Mechanical and abrasion resistance: withstands intense impacts and wear, ensuring structural integrity even under extreme conditions;
Flexibility and elasticity: allows significant deformations without compromising its resistance, ideal for components that require damping;
Chemical stability: high tolerance to aggressive chemicals, oils and greases - making it suitable for harsh industrial environments;
Processing versatility: it can be injection molded and extruded, making it possible to manufacture high-precision parts with an innovative design.
Applications
Mining;
Oil and gas;
Castors;
Cell phone covers;
Consumer goods;
Shoes;
Among others.
Thermoplastic Rubber (TR)
Thermoplastic Rubber is considered a "super rubber". It gets this adjective because of its flexibility, resistance and ease of processing. Up to 40% lighter than vulcanized rubber, TR can be molded and recycled without complex processes, reducing costs and environmental impact.
Properties and advantages
Good elasticity and wear resistance: maintains structural integrity even under constant friction;
Excellent adherence to different surfaces: provides stability and safety in applications such as shoe soles;
Superior lightness: up to 40% lighter than vulcanized rubber, reducing weight without compromising performance;
This is a versatile material that is easy to process and available in different formulations to suit various applications. Crystal PVC, with its glassy appearance, is used in soles and accessories, providing transparency and a refined finish. Micro-expanded PVC, on the other hand, offers greater lightness and is ideal for soles that require comfort and less weight.
Properties and advantages
Chemical and mechanical resistance: withstands exposure to chemical products, impacts and prolonged wear;
Adjustable flexibility: can vary from rigid to highly flexible, depending on the formulation;
Electrical insulation: excellent performance in electrical and electronic applications;
Recyclability: can be reused, reducing environmental impact.
Applications
Slippers;
Casual sneakers;
Tractor soles;
Scholarships;
Among others.
Keep in mind: types of thermoplastic elastomers, properties, advantages and applications
Check out this table showing the main characteristics of thermoplastic elastomers!
Type
Properties
Advantages
Applications
TPE
High elasticity, recyclable, versatile in hardness and colors
Easy processing, sustainability, flexible design
Consumer goods, medical devices, electronics
TPV
Heat resistance (up to 135°C), vulcanized structure, high chemical resistance
Long service life, robustness in aggressive environments, conventional processing
Automotive, industrial equipment, construction
TPU
Excellent impact and abrasion resistance, flexibility, chemical stability
Superior durability, processing versatility, resistance to oils and greases
Footwear, mining, oil and gas, electronics, transportation
TR
Good elasticity, lightness, wear resistance and flexibility
Easy molding, variety of hardnesses and colors, good performance in shoes
Shoe soles, toys, automotive components
PVC
Mechanical, chemical and thermal resistance, available in various forms
FCC: innovation and excellence in thermoplastic elastomers
FCC is a benchmark in the development of innovative solutions in thermoplastic elastomers, supplying high-performance materials to various industrial sectors.
With more than 50 years' experience and a portfolio of more than 140 thermoplastic elastomer items, we continually invest in research and development, developing products that combine quality, sustainability and cutting-edge technology.
Our commitment to excellence makes FCC a strategic partner for companies looking for resistant, versatile and efficient materials.
So, if you are looking for excellent thermoplastic elastomers to optimize your products and processes, take a look at FCC's portfolio!
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