November 22, 2024 – TPE materials have found widespread applications in automotive parts and wire and cable industries due to their exceptional physical and processing properties. However, achieving a balance of high strength, flexibility, and elasticity in TPE can be a challenge that standard formulations often fail to meet. So, how can this dilemma be resolved?
According to industry insights, a commonly adopted approach is the blending of high and low molecular weight SEBS. This method leverages the unique advantages of both high and low molecular weight SEBS, enabling TPE to maintain a certain level of mechanical strength while also exhibiting superior flexibility and elasticity. High molecular weight SEBS contributes to higher mechanical strength and hardness, whereas low molecular weight SEBS provides better flexibility and elasticity. This combination allows TPE materials to meet a wider range of application requirements.
AsiaMB has learned that the principle behind blending high and low molecular weight SEBS goes beyond merely enhancing physical properties. Low molecular weight SEBS exhibits better fluidity, whereas high molecular weight SEBS has poorer fluidity. By combining these two, a balance between fluidity and processing performance is achieved, ensuring that TPE maintains good fluidity during processing while also achieving the desired physical properties. Additionally, the oil loading of SEBS significantly impacts fluidity. High molecular weight SEBS can accommodate more oil, but excessive oil loading can compromise the mechanical properties of the final product. Therefore, by blending high and low molecular weight SEBS, it is possible to maintain fluidity while controlling oil loading, thereby balancing mechanical properties and cost.
In summary, for TPE materials that require a combination of high strength, flexibility, and elasticity, the blending of high and low molecular weight SEBS is recommended. Low molecular weight SEBS ensures good processing fluidity and enhances the flexibility and elasticity of TPE, while high molecular weight SEBS increases the strength and hardness of TPE and enhances its oil-locking ability. This method not only meets the high demands of automotive parts, wire and cable industries, but also optimizes processing performance and reduces costs.