Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), also known as thermoplastic rubbers, are physical blends of copolymers or polymers (typically plastics and rubbers) composed of materials with thermoplastic and elastomeric properties. While most elastomers are thermosetting, thermoplastic plastics are relatively easy to use in manufacturing, such as through injection molding. Thermoplastic elastomers exhibit typical advantages of both rubber and plastic materials. The benefits of using thermoplastic elastomers include their ability to stretch to moderate elongation and return to near their original shape, thereby offering a longer lifespan and better physical range compared to other materials. The main difference between thermosetting and thermoplastic elastomers lies in the type of cross-linking bonds in their structure. In fact, cross-linking is the key structural factor that imparts high elasticity.

　　Types of Thermoplastic Elastomers

1. There are six main categories of commercial thermoplastic elastomers (as named according to ISO 18064):

2. Styrenic block copolymers, TPS (TPE-s)

3. Thermoplastic Polyolefin Elastomers, TPO (TPE-o)

4. TPV Thermoplastic Vulcanizate (TPE-v or TPV)

5. Thermoplastic Polyurethane, TPU (TPU)

6. Thermoplastic Copolyester, TPC (TPE-E)

7. Thermoplastic Polyamide, TPA (TPE-A)

　TPZ Unsorted Thermoplastic Elastomers

Examples of TPE materials from the block copolymer group include CAWITON, THERMOLAST K, THERMOLAST M, Arnitel, Hytrel, Dryflex, Mediprene, Kraton, Pibiflex, Sofprene, and Laprene. Among these styrenic block copolymers (TPE-s) are CAWITON, THERMOLAST K, THERMOLAST M, Sofprene, Dryflex, and Laprene. Laripur, Desmopan, or Elastollan are examples of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Examples of TPV materials include SarlThe thermoplastic olefin elastomer (TPO) compounds, including examples such as ink, Santoprene, Termoton, Solprene, THERMOLAST V, Vegaprene, or Forprene, are compatible with -Tec's E or junction. Ninjaflex is used for 3D printing.

To become thermoplastic elastomers, materials must possess the following three basic characteristics:

The ability to stretch to a moderate elongation rate, and to recover to nearly its original shape after stress relief.

2. Can be processed into a melt at high temperatures.

3. Lack of obvious creep

　Applications of Thermoplastic Elastomers

Thermoplastic elastomers are used where conventional elastomers cannot provide the required physical performance range for products. These materials find extensive applications in the automotive and household appliance sectors. In 2014, the global market for thermoplastic elastomers was approximately 50 million tons, valued at $16.7 billion. Around 40% of all TPE products are used in vehicle manufacturing. For instance, copolyester TPE is used in ski lane construction, where its rigidity and wear resistance are crucial. Thermoplastic olefins (TPO) are increasingly used as roofing materials. Thermoplastic elastomers are also widely employed in conduits, where nylon block copolymers offer a range of ideal softness for patients. Thermoplastic silicone and olefin blends are used for extruded glass runs and dynamic weather stripping profiles in automotive applications. Styrenic block copolymers are used for soles due to their ease of processing and are extensively used as adhesives. Engineering TPS materials, due to their unparalleled ability in two-shot molding on various thermoplastic substrates, cover a wide range of applications from automotive markets to consumer and product uses. These examples include soft traction surfaces, design elements, backlit switches and surfaces, as well as seals, washers, or damping elements. Thermoplastic plastics have experienced growth in the HVAC industry due to their functionality, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability in modifying plastic resins into various covers, fans, and casings. Thermoplastic elastomers can also be used for cable sheathing and internal insulation materials, as well as in certain earphone cables.