Overview
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) compound is a versatile material known for its combination of elastomeric properties and processing flexibility. It is widely used in various industries due to its durability, resilience, and ease of customization.
Composition
TPU compound is typically composed of:
- Polyurethane polymer
- Plasticizers
- Stabilizers
- Colorants
- Other additives for specific properties
Properties
TPU compound exhibits the following properties:
- Elasticity and Flexibility
- High Abrasion Resistance
- Good Tear Strength
- Chemical Resistance
- Weather Resistance
- Wide Hardness Range (Shore A to Shore D)
Manufacturing Process
TPU compound is typically manufactured through melt compounding, where the polyurethane polymer and additives are mixed and melted together using specialized equipment such as twin-screw extruders.
Applications
TPU compounds find numerous applications across industries, including:
- Footwear
- Sporting Goods
- Automotive Parts
- Industrial Belting
- Seals and Gaskets
- Medical Devices
- Consumer Electronics
Environmental Considerations
Efforts are being made to develop TPU formulations that are more environmentally friendly, such as bio-based polyurethanes and recyclable TPU materials.