Polymer

Polymers are made up of very large molecules made up of many repeating units called monomers, which ultimately form this long polymer chain

Thermoplastic

A thermoplastic is a type of plastic polymer that becomes moldable or flexible at a certain temperature and solidifies upon cooling. This property allows it to be repeatedly softened by heating and hardened by cooling without significant chemical change.

Other ThermoPlastic Elastomers (Other TPE)

Thermoplastic elastomers offer a unique combination of rubber-like elasticity and the processability of thermoplastics, such as:

1. Styrenic block copolymers (SBC):

Structure: These blocks consist of polystyrene blocks alternating with rubbery polymer blocks such as butadiene or isoprene.

Properties: Excellent elasticity, good abrasion resistance, and good processability.

Applications: Shoe soles, toys, automotive parts, adhesives.

2. Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU):

Structure: Based on polyurethane polymers.

Properties: High strength, abrasion resistance, and toughness. Excellent resistance to oil and grease.

Applications: Footwear, automotive parts, medical equipment, sports equipment.
3. Thermoplastic polyolefins (TPOs):

Structure: Usually polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE) blended with elastomers such as ethylene-propylene rubber (EPR).

Properties: Impact resistance, flexibility and weatherability.
Applications: Automotive parts (bumpers, fenders), outdoor applications.

4. Copolyester elastomers (COPE):

Structure: Copolymers of polyester and polyether blocks.
Properties: High strength, good chemical resistance and excellent hydrolytic stability.
Applications: Automotive parts, medical equipment, sporting goods.

5. Thermoplastic polyamides (TPA):

Structure: Based on polyamide (nylon) polymers.
Properties: High strength, good abrasion resistance and high melting point.
Applications: Automotive parts, gears, bearings.

6. Silicone elastomers:

Structure: Based on silicone polymers.
Properties: Excellent temperature resistance, flexibility at high and low temperatures, biocompatibility.
Applications: Medical devices, electrical insulators, high temperature applications.