What is TPV Material? | A Simple and Detailed Guide

What is TPV Material?

TPV material, also known as thermoplastic vulcanisate, belongs to the group of thermoplastic rubber materials like TPR, TPE and TPU. It is an invention that has helped to bridge the gap between plastic and rubber. It is a high-performance elastomer with ever-increasing durability(more on that later), lightweight, chemical, temperature, weathering resistance, good flexibility, and decent colorability.

Thermoplastic vulcanisate is a form of rubber that has been vulcanized utilizing the compounding process. That means polymers are transformed into more durable materials through the participation of crosslinks.

The compounding process makes the TPV rubber extremely flexible and customizable, thus increasing its potential applications significantly. It is called by many experts materisl which blur’s the line between plastics and rubber.

TPV is an alloy comprised mostly of fully cured EPDM Rubber(A type of synthetic rubber) compressed in a matrix similar to polypropylene(PP).

TPVs majorly include acrylate rubber TPV (ACM), silicone rubber TPV (TPSiV), TPV based on NR or ENR, polyolefin elastomer (EOC) / PP TPV).

It is steadily replacing traditional thermosetting vulcanized rubber in many industries thanks to its easy customization properties. The material is available in three physical forms – pallets, solids, and granules.

TPV Material: Key Properties – 

1. High resistance to a wide range of solvents, fats, and oils.
2. 100% recyclable
3. Excellent thermal resistance
4. High durability makes the material withstand any significant deformation.
5. Meager impact by aggressive outdoor exposures.
6. Great barrier properties.
7. Good processability
8. Easy adhesion PE and PP for multiple-part applications

Brands and Suppliers – 

Below is the list of top suppliers and brands of TPV material:

Interesting Read – What is ABS Plastic | How is ABS Material Made | Key Properties of ABS | Applications of ABS Plastic | Advantages & Disadvantages of ABS Plastic

TPV Materials Applications –

1. Automotive 
2. Building & Construction 
3. Appliances 
4. Agriculture 

1. Automotive:

The automotive industry is moving towards making less pollution-emitting and lightweight vehicles to reduce the carbon emission by industry. TPV comes to the rescue with its excellent thermal resistance and barrier properties which makes it ideal for such applications

TPV rubber plays an important role in automotive interior parts, tires, under the hood applications, exterior, and chassis.

2. Building & Construction:

the thermoplastic vulcanisate compound has great weathering properties and durability making it perfect for building and construction applications like pipes & fittings, glazing seals, waterproofing membrane, decorative and fabric coatings, wall coverings, etc.

3. Appliances:

The lightweight capabilities of thermoplastic vulcanisate can reduce manufacturing and labour costs for manufacturers. The TPV plastic is often used in making interior and exterior parts for appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, ovens, microwaves, hair-dryers, shavers, etc.

4. Agriculture:

Resistance to aggressive fluid ad a good compression set make TPV plastic ideal for manufacturing pipe seals and other fluid-contact products.

Santoprene™ – 

Santoprene™ is a high-performance TPV brand owned, produced, and supplied by ExxonMobil Chemical Company, which is based in the United States. The word “Santoprene” was trademarked in the year 1977. It is the most popular and widely known TPV brand in North America. Its high-performance nature makes it compatible or applications in automotive, industrial goods, and consumer products.

Key Benefits:

1. Fabulous aesthetics with strength and flexibility
2. Sustainable benefits like weight reduction sustained manufacturing and recycling compared to thermoset rubber (TSR) or ethylene propylene diene polymethylene backbone (EPDM) rubber.

Differences Between TPV and TPE – 

FAQs –

1. What is the difference between EPDM and TPV?

Ans. But TPV and EPDM have their pros and cons, EPDM rubber has limited colour options but provides better abrasion resistance. It also boasts a higher heat resistance TPV (160°C vs. 100°C). On the other hand, TPV offers greater design flexibility and lower fabrication costs for intricate shapes and designs.

2. What is the difference between TPV and PETG?

Ans. If we compare both of them side by side, PETG is more flexible and durable. On the other hand, TPV is not as dense as PETG. In terms of chemical resistance, TPV is a good choice, PETG is an excellent choice.

3. What is the difference between TPU and PLA?

Ans. TPV and PLA have some subtle differences. PLA is more environmentally friendly and is compostable. It is easier to print, and it can prove to e an ideal material for beginners. TPV is good for molding flexible parts that need to be able to return to their originals State.

The Takeaway – 

Thus, was my take on TPV material. I have kept this piece short as I don’t think enough development has been made on TPV compounds.

Thanks for reading. Kindly post your reviews and thoughts in the comment box.

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