Thermoplastic Elastomers

Abstract

AbstractThermoplastic elastomers are a rapidly growing part of the polymer industry. They combine the physical properties of rubbers with the ability to be processed on equipment designed for thermoplastics. This gives them two advantages over conventional rubbers—processing is much faster and scrap is recyclable. In addition, thermoplastic elastomers can be used to formulate adhesives, compatibilize and modify other thermoplastics, and modify asphalts. There are several types of thermoplastic elastomers. The most important are styrenic block copolymers, multiblock copolymers, and hard polymer/elastomer combinations. Most thermoplastic elastomers are multiphase systems, with one or more hard phases and an elastomeric phase. The properties of individual thermoplastic elastomers depend on the properties and proportions of the individual phases and on their morphology. This article reviews and compares the structure, synthesis, and properties of thermoplastic elastomers of all types. It includes details of their commercial uses, trade names, and consumption.