Understanding Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE)

The selection of the right TPE for a particular application can be difficult, with a wide range of materials to choose from. The move from vulcanised rubber or thermoplastic to TPE can also be a difficult decision in the first place. This course is designed to provide an understanding of the main types of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) available and will give a comparison of chemical structure; manufacturers; grades; properties; compounding; processsing and applications between each type. Reference is made to the place of TPEs relative to vulcanised rubber and thermoplastics and the future potential for these materials. Enough basic polymer science is included to understand these topics and extensive use is made of visual aids to assist.