Types and Classification Methods of Thermoplastic Elastomer Materials

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are materials that exhibit rubber-like elasticity at room temperature and can be plastically formed at high temperatures, demonstrating unique physical and mechanical properties. Combining the durability of vulcanized rubber with the processing convenience of thermoplastic plastics, TPEs have become a new type of polymer material integrating the dual characteristics of resins and rubbers, known as the "third-generation rubber". However, how to further distinguish different types of thermoplastic elastomers? This is exactly the issue we will explore next.