High Performance Thermoplastic Elastomers: A Review

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are a unique class of engineering materials in that they

combine the elasticity of vulcanized rubber with the ease of processing typical for

thermoplastics. The disadvantage of most commercial TPEs is their relatively low service

temperature and limited resistance to solvents and chemicals. Recent developments

brought to the market a variety of new products with greatly improved performance

characteristics. This contribution will discuss their chemistry, properties and applications.