Application of Peroxides for the Production of Thermoplastic Vulcanisates

Thermoplastic vulcanisates (TPV) are class of materials with properties combining those of thermoplastics and rubbers. A thermoplastic matrix material gives strength and ensures thermoplastic process ability. A cross-linked rubber phase improves elastic properties and lowers the hardness of the finished product.

Peroxides appear to be very suitable crosslink agents for thermoplastic vulcanisates, allowing the production of high strength, high elongation and low compression set materials. By increasing the rubber content in the TPV, soft touch thermoplastic vulcanisates with a good compression set can be obtained.

This paper summarizes the results of a TPV crosslinking project. We will show experimental data obtained from both extruder and internal mixer produced TPV.