As someone who’s spent over fifteen years in the plastics and elastomers industry, I’ve seen my fair share of material quirks. One issue that keeps coming up, especially with white thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), is its tendency to turn yellow over time. Whether it’s a phone case, a yoga mat, or a medical device, that unsightly […]

As someone who’s been working with thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) for over a decade in the materials industry, I’ve handled countless questions about this versatile material. From yoga mats to car parts, TPE is everywhere, prized for its flexibility and durability. But one question keeps popping up: Why does TPE smell so bad? If you’ve ever

As someone who’s been navigating the plastics industry for over a decade, I’ve seen my fair share of material mismatches and bonding challenges. One question that keeps surfacing, especially from product designers and manufacturers, is why thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) struggles to form a reliable bond with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). It’s a frustration I’ve encountered

Having spent over a decade in the polymer industry, working with everything from automotive seals to medical tubing, I’ve come to appreciate the versatility of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs). These materials, which blend the flexibility of rubber with the processability of plastics, are a staple in countless applications. But one question I often hear from clients,

Having worked in the plastics and elastomer industry for over 15 years, I’ve seen how thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) have become a go-to material for everything from soft grips to medical devices. One question that frequently comes up, whether from product designers or manufacturers, is about the hardness levels of TPE soft gels. Understanding these levels

After spending over a decade in the plastics and elastomer industry, I’ve seen my fair share of production hiccups, and one question that pops up regularly is how long to dry thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) materials before processing. It’s a critical step that can make or break your final product. Get it wrong, and you’re looking

As someone who’s been knee-deep in the world of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) for over a decade, I’ve fielded countless questions about how these materials behave in real-world applications. One issue that keeps cropping up, whether from product designers, manufacturers, or curious engineers, is when and why TPE starts to feel greasy or “bleed” oil. It’s

In the dynamic world of plastic injection molding, TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) soft rubber stands out for its unique combination of elasticity and processability. However, like any material, it comes with its own set of challenges. One issue that frequently perplexes molders is the peeling of TPE soft rubber injection-molded products. This phenomenon not only mars the aesthetic

In the world of plastic injection molding, TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) soft rubber is a popular material due to its flexibility, durability, and ease of processing. However, one common issue that many molders encounter is the bulging at the injection gate. This problem not only affects the appearance of the final product but can also compromise

As someone who has been immersed in the plastics industry for years, specializing in thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), I’ve encountered numerous inquiries and challenges related to the performance of TPE materials. One recurring issue that often puzzles manufacturers and product designers is the poor toughness of TPE plastics. Toughness, a critical mechanical property, determines a material’s ability to