Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is a versatile material valued for its rubber-like elasticity and plastic-like processability, widely used in industries such as automotive, medical, consumer goods, and toys. However, a common issue manufacturers face is that TPE raw materials often lack the desired transparency, resulting in cloudy, hazy, or opaque products. This can be problematic for […]

When selecting materials for manufacturing products, understanding the properties, applications, and limitations of silicone and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is critical. Both materials are widely used in industries such as medical, automotive, consumer goods, and baby products due to their flexibility and durability. However, their distinct chemical compositions and processing behaviors make them suitable for different

If you’ve ever found yourself scratching your head over the relationship between “plastic” and “TPE,” you’re not alone. Over my years working in polymer materials, I’ve had countless conversations with designers, engineers, and product developers who use these terms interchangeably—and often end up tangled in misunderstandings. It’s one of those topics that seems simple until

Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs) are prized for their versatility, combining the elasticity of rubber with the processability of thermoplastics, making them a staple in industries like automotive, medical, and consumer goods. A key question for manufacturers, environmentalists, and sustainability-focused professionals is how long TPE materials take to degrade in various environments. This article explores the degradation

Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs) are widely valued in industries like automotive, medical, and consumer goods for their flexibility, durability, and ease of processing. A common concern for manufacturers and engineers is how long TPE materials continue to shrink after processing, as this phenomenon, known as post-processing shrinkage, can affect the dimensional stability and performance of molded

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) data cables are widely used for charging and data transfer in devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops due to their flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Consumers and manufacturers often ask, how long can TPE data cables last under typical usage conditions? This article explores the lifespan of TPE data cables, the factors

Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs) are versatile materials that combine the flexibility of rubber with the processability of thermoplastics, making them widely used in industries such as automotive, medical, and consumer goods. A critical concern for engineers, manufacturers, and designers is understanding how long TPE materials can endure high temperatures before they begin to decompose. This article

Having spent over a decade in the polymer processing industry, I’ve faced countless challenges on the production floor. Few things are as frustrating as dealing with sticky TPE. You’re all set for a smooth production run, the machine is humming, and then—it happens. The parts won’t release cleanly, they stick to the mold, or worse,

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) injection-molded products are everywhere—think soft-grip handles, phone cases, or even medical device components. They’re loved for their flexibility, durability, and that satisfying, rubbery feel. But there’s a common gripe that keeps popping up: why do some TPE products lack that shiny, polished look? As someone who’s spent years in the plastics industry,

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) soft gels have become a staple in industries ranging from toys to medical devices, prized for their flexibility, durability, and eco-friendly nature. But there’s a nagging issue that many users encounter: why does TPE turn yellow over time? As someone who’s spent years in the materials industry, I’ve seen this question pop