TPU

Material Type

Rubber

Material Full Name

Thermoplastic Polyurethane

Process Compatibility

Compression Molding, Injection Molding

TPU Description

Price

$$$$$

Strength

Excellent flexibility, durability, and resistance to abrasion, tear, and weathering.

Weakness

Higher cost, and poor resistance to hydrolysis in hot and humid environments.

Common Application

Medical devices like catheters and tubing, protective cases for smartphones and tablets.

TPU Properties

Thermoplastic polyurethane is often abbreviated as TPU. It is a melt-processable thermoplastic elastomer with high durability and flexibility. It has the characteristics of both plastic and rubber.

Properties at a Glance

*Pease note: The following material properties are for reference only. Actual values may vary depending on the selected material brand.

Property	Metric	English
Density	1.28-1.66 g/cm³	80-103lb/ft³
Shore Hardness D	55-83	55-83
Tensile Strength	52.4-79.3 MPa	7600-11500 PSI
Elongation at Break	10-86%	10-86%
Min Temp.	-40~0°C	-40~32º F
Max Temp.	100~120°C	212~240º F

How Additives Improve NR Properties

TPU can be modified by incorporating additives into its formulation. Some common additives include,

Plasticizers: Increase flexibility and softness, suitable for applications like flexible tubing or seals.
Flame retardants: Improve fire resistance in automotive components. Stabilizers: Enhance UV resistance, making TPU suitable for outdoor applications.
Colorants: Add color for aesthetic purposes or match branding requirements.

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FAQs of TPU Materials

View our FAQ center for more questions.

Can TPU be recycled?

Yes, TPU can be recycled through various processes, including mechanical recycling and chemical recycling. Mechanical recycling involves grinding or shredding TPU waste into small particles, which can then be melted and molded into new products. Chemical recycling breaks down TPU into its molecular components, which can be used to create new TPU or other materials.

Is TPU suitable for outdoor applications?

TPU is suitable for outdoor applications due to its excellent weather resistance, UV resistance, and durability. It can withstand exposure to sunlight, moisture, and temperature fluctuations without significant degradation.

Is TPU suitable for use in food-contact applications?

TPU is commonly used in food-grade tubing, hoses, seals, gaskets, and other flexible components that come into direct or indirect contact with food.