TPE

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) encompass a broad class of materials that combine the properties of thermoplastics and elastomers. The discovery and development of TPEs involved contributions from various researchers and companies over several decades, rather than being credited to a single discoverer.

In the mid-20th century, advancements in polymer chemistry and processing techniques allowed for the development of materials that exhibited both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties. Companies such as Monsanto, Shell, and BASF played significant roles in researching and commercializing TPEs in the 1950s and 1960s. These efforts led to the creation of TPE families such as styrenic block copolymers (e.g., SBS, SEBS), thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs), and thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs).

Therefore, while there isn’t a single individual credited with discovering TPEs, the development of these materials represents collaborative efforts across the polymer industry to meet the demand for versatile and high-performance elastomeric plastics.

Pictured above are components for protecting door corners, and feet for a guitar amplifier.

Why choose TPE for your injection moulding project?

  • 1. Versatility: TPE injection moulding can produce a wide range of products with varying levels of hardness and flexibility.
  • 2. Cost-effective: TPE materials are relatively cheap compared to other materials like rubber or silicone, which makes TPE injection moulding a cost-effective solution for producing soft-touch products.
  • 3. Durability: TPE materials are resistant to abrasion, tearing, and impact, making them suitable for producing products that require high durability and wear resistance.
  • 4. Easy to process: TPE materials are easy to process and can be easily moulded into complex shapes and designs, reducing production time and costs.
  • 5. Consistency: TPE injection moulding provides consistent results with minimal variation in product quality, ensuring product consistency and reducing the risk of defects.
  • 6. Eco-friendly: TPE materials are recyclable, making TPE injection moulding a sustainable manufacturing process.

Overall, TPE injection moulding offers a high level of versatility and cost-effectiveness, making it a popular choice for producing soft-touch products that require high durability and wear resistance.

If you have an injection moulding project and are considering using TPE, please get in touch with our technical team on 01280 706335 for a free consultation!

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