Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE)
Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) are rubbery materials which can be reversibly melted. They are multiphase copolymers, blends or both in which the dispersed phase crosslinks a continuous rubbery matrix. When heated, the dispersed phase melts and the materials can flow. Thus the TPE can be molded after setting simply by remelting. In the typical rubber, the matrix is irreversible bonded by covalent bonding. (RDC 3/30/2010) Wikipedia 3/30/2010 Karakaya et al, Polym. Eng Sci., 50 #4, p 677-688 (2010)
. More on Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE) In order to qualify as a thermoplastic elastomer, a material must have these three essential characteristics: 1.The ability to be stretched to moderate elongations and, upon the removal of stress, return to something close to its original shape. 2.Processable as a melt at elevated temperature. 3.Absence of significant creep. Types 1. Styrene block copolymers 2. Polyolefin blends 3. Elatomeric Alloys 4. Thermoplastics Polyurethanes 5. Thermomplastic Copolyesters 6. Thermoplastics Polyamides Based on environmental and manufacturing methods, thermoplastic elastomers are growing rapidly to replace conventional rubber. SEBS/PP blends are the most likely candidates from the presently available thermoplastics. Wikipedia 3/30/2010 Karakaya et al, Polym. Eng Sci., 50 #4, p 677-688 (2010)
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