Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)

Thermoplastic polyester elastomers are collectively known as COPE (copolyester elastomer), TPEE (thermoplastic polyether ester elastomer) or TPC-EE (thermoplastic copolyester elastomer) and are produced by combining crystalline (hard) and amorphous (soft) segments to offer properties of thermoset elastomers with the processability and recyclability of thermoplastics. COPE combine toughness, resilience, impact, creep and tear resistance, fatigue resistance, chemical resistance and both high and low temperature performance. COPE can be processed by injection molding and extrusion method. Typical applications include hose and tube, gaskets, animal tags, hose fittings, cables, trampoline fabric, furniture, automotive components and specialty fibers.

TPE’s are low modulus flexible materials that can be stretched repeatedly at room temperature and return to their approximate original size when the stress is released. There are various types of technologies within the TPE family of materials, as follows:

• Styrene-Ethylene-Butadiene-Styrene (SEBS)
• Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO)
• Thermoplastic Vulcanizate (TPV)
• Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
• Melt Processible Rubber (MPR)
• Co-polyester-Ether (COPE)
• Polyether Block Amide (PEBA)

Each of these material types within the TPE portfolio offers a unique combination of properties and characteristics. Please refer to the applicable sections of our website for specific information regarding each type of TPE.