What is TPE-S
TPE-S (Thermoplastic Styrenics) refers to a family of thermoplastic elastomers compounds based on styrene block copolymers. These materials combine the flexibility of rubber with the ease of thermoplastic processing, making them ideal for a wide range of applications.
What is SEBS?
SEBS (Styrene-Ethylene-Butylene-Styrene) is a type of TPE-S that has been hydrogenated, resulting in improved heat and UV resistance. SEBS is softer, more durable, and suitable for demanding applications like medical devices and outdoor products.
What is TPE-S made of?
TPE-S compounds are composed of:
- SBS or SEBS copolymers: Combining hard styrene segments, providing strength and rigidity, and soft rubber segments, typically made of ethylene or butadiene, offering flexibility and elasticityt.
- A Thermoplastic matrix: Most of the time Polypropylene, to ensure ease of processing and adjust hardness.
- Oil: used to extend SBS or SEBS, in order to adjust hardness over a wide range and make it easily processable.
This block copolymer structure allows TPE-S to exhibit both rubber-like properties and the processability of thermoplastics.
Key features of TPE-S
TPE-S (Thermoplastic Styrenics) is a versatile and cost-effective elastomer that combines the best of rubber and plastic. Its soft feel, easy processability, and ability to withstand environmental stress make it a preferred material in industries ranging from consumer goods to medical devices and automotive components.
Soft and Flexible
Offers a rubbery feel, making it comfortable for grips, seals, and medical applications.
Easy to Process
Can be processed using standard thermoplastic techniques like injection molding and extrusion, enabling cost-effective manufacturing.
Wide Hardness Range
Available in endless levels of softness and hardness, from 0 shore A to 50 shore D allowing customization for specific applications.
Resistant to UV and Weathering
Modified SEBS-based TPE-S grades perform well in outdoor applications, resisting degradation from sunlight and weather exposure.
Adhesion to various substrates
The compound nature of TPE-S allow to tailor formulations to bond on a wide range of polymers, from PP to engineering plastics.
Good Elastic Recovery
Returns to its original shape after stretching or compressing, ideal for products requiring durability and resilience.
What are the sustainability benefits of TPE-S?
Recycability
As a thermoplastic, TPE-S can be reprocessed and reused, reducing waste in manufacturing.
Lower Energy Processing
Requires less energy for molding and extrusion compared to thermoset rubbers.
Reduced Material Waste
Offcuts and excess material can often be recycled back into the production process, improving efficiency.
Eco-Friendly Additives
Some TPE-S formulations incorporate bio-based or sustainable additives, further reducing environmental impact.
Industries & Applications
Explore Our Trusted TPE-S Brands
