TPE

TPE, or thermoplastic elastomer, is a class of polymers that combine elastomeric properties with the recyclability and processing advantages of thermoplastics. They can be stretched like rubber but melted and remolded with conventional equipment such as injection molders and extruders. This means TPEs can be processed without curing or vulcanization and are generally recyclable.

The major families of TPEs include Styrenic block copolymers (SBC), such as SBS, SEBS, and SEPS, which offer good elasticity and weathering resistance; Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), which provide toughness, abrasion resistance, and chemical resistance for applications like hoses and protective skins; and Thermoplastic olefins (TPOs) and thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV), which combine a polyolefin matrix with a dispersed elastomer phase for cost-effective automotive and consumer-use parts. Other types exist, including various polyolefin-based elastomers and specialty blends designed for specific properties.

Properties of TPEs vary by formulation but typically include elastic recovery, flexibility over a wide temperature range, and a broad hardness range (roughly Shore A 20–85). They offer good processability, easy colorability, and potential recyclability, though chemical resistance, oil resistance, and UV stability depend on the grade. Some grades can exhibit low permanent set and good low-temperature performance, while others emphasize toughness or clarity.

Common applications span automotive weather seals and gaskets, soft-touch grips, consumer electronics housings, footwear, sporting goods, and medical devices where biocompatibility or purity is required. Environmentally, TPEs are generally recyclable, though end-of-life considerations depend on additives and the specific grade.