Abstract
The main advantages of Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomers (TPE-E) are their elastomer properties as well as their ability to be processed in the same way as thermoplastic polymers (e.g., injection moulding, compression moulding and extrusion). However, TPE-Es’ properties, mainly their mechanical properties and thermal characteristics, are not as good as those of elastomers. Because of this TPE-Es are often modified with the aim of improving their properties and extending their range of application. Radiation cross-linking using accelerated electron beams is one of the most effective ways to change virgin polymers’ properties significantly. Their electrical (that is to say permittivity and resistivity measurements), mechanical (that is, tensile and impact tensile tests), as well as surface (that is, nano-indentation) properties were measured on modified/cross-linked TPE-E specimens with and/or without a cross-linking agent at irradiation doses of 0, 33, 66, 99, 132, 165 and 198 kGy. The data acquired from these procedures show significant changes in the measured properties. The results of this study allow the possibility of determining the proper processing parameters and irradiation doses for the production of TPE-E products which leads to the enlargement of their application in practice.
Highlights
Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomers (TPE-E) is a member of a relatively new group of thermoplastic elastomers whose production grows year on year, mainly due to their price and excellent properties
After the radiation cross-linking by beta-electron rays, these materials change the structure from the thermoplastic material to not re-meltable one
At the lowest irradiation dose of 33 kGy no gel content was measured for both types of TPE-Ex and V-TPE-Ex by this method
Summary
TPE-E is a member of a relatively new group of thermoplastic elastomers whose production grows year on year, mainly due to their price and excellent properties. They are often used as a substitute for classic elastomers. The TPE-E properties do not attain the levels of elastomer properties over the entire temperature range, which leads to some limitations Because of this granulate manufacturers prepare TPE-E with precise properties for the needs of the automotive and electrical industries [1,2]. As with other thermoplastic elastomers the hard-crystalline domains of TPE-E ensure elastomer properties and heat resistance while soft amorphous ones have good low-temperature flexibility [4,5]
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