company news about What is Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), sometimes referred to as thermoplastic rubbers, are a class of copolymers or a physical mix of polymers (usually a plastic and a rubber) that consist of materials with both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties.

While most elastomers are thermosets, thermoplastics are in contrast relatively easy to use in manufacturing, for example, by injection molding.

Thermoplastic elastomers show advantages typical of both rubbery materials and plastic materials.

The benefit of using thermoplastic elastomers is the ability to stretch to moderate elongations and return to its near original shape creating a longer life and better physical range than other materials.

The difference between PVC and TPE is the elasticity and the service life. The elasticity and service life of TPE is better than PVC. The TPE raw materials cost is a bit expensive than PVC.