What is a Thermoplastic Elastomer?
Thermoplastic Elastomer, commonly referred to as TPE, is a class of flexible polymer materials that combine the elasticity of rubber with the processing advantages of thermoplastics. Unlike traditional vulcanised rubbers, TPEs can be melted, moulded and reprocessed, making them highly efficient for manufacturing.Â
TPE is widely used across automotive, consumer goods, medical and industrial applications due to its versatility, recyclability and consistent processing performance. It offers good fatigue resistance and good resistance to weathering (depending on specific grade). Certain grades also provide moderate resistance to chemicals and oils, though performance varies significantly between formulations.
What adhesives can bond TPE?
Thermoplastic Elastomers are notorious for being difficult to bond and most can only be bonded by using a primer in conjunction with an instant adhesive. We recommend using NEXTITE SP901 Polyolefin Primer in conjunction with one of our faster curing surface insensitive cyanoacrylate adhesives like NEXTITE 501 and NEXTITE 506 for best results. Rubber toughened grades can be used if extra flexibility is required.Â
Instant Adhesives (Cyanoacrylates) + NEXTITE SP901 Polyolefin Primer
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Strengths |
Extremely fast fixture, high shear strength, no mixing (single part), great for high-speed production lines various grades available for different adhesive needs. |
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Limitations |
Limited gap filling capability without activators, lower impact and peel strength compared to other structural adhesives (rubber toughened grades increase impact and peel resistance) |
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What Industries Use Thermoplastic Elastomers?
TPE is commonly selected for applications where flexibility, comfort and efficient manufacturing are key requirements. Its ability to be moulded and recycled makes it attractive to many manufacturers.
Common industries include:
- Automotive and Transport
- Consumer Products
- Medical Devices
- Electronics
- Construction
- Industrial Manufacturing
Challenges with Thermoplastic Elastomers
- Wide variety of thermoplastic elastomer grades all formulated for different purposes
- Difficult to bond due to low surface energy and flexible material
- Oil and Chemical resistance are generally lower than other elastomers
- Generally, a good temperature resistance however they will melt at high temperatures
- Expensive compared to other elastomers
Variations of Thermoplastic Elastomers
- TPV – Thermoplastic Vulcanizates
- TPU – Thermoplastic Polyurethanes
- TPE-O / TPO – Thermoplastic Polyolefins
- TPE-E – Thermoplastic Copolyesters
- TPA – Thermoplastic Polyamides
- TPE-S – Styrenic Block Copolymers
Adhesion to different TPE grades can vary, we suggest testing adhesion prior to full scale application to ensure compatibility and performance.
Note: Some TPE grades may bond with cyanoacrylates without a primer.
Surface Preparation
Proper surface preparation is critical to achieving a strong and reliable bond when working with thermoplastic elastomers. Begin by lightly wiping the bonding area with Isopropyl Alcohol. This removes surface contaminants including dust, oils, mould release agents and residual adhesive that can interfere with bond strength. Allow the cleaner to fully evaporate before applying any adhesive.Â
Summary
Choosing the best industrial adhesive to bond thermoplastic elastomers comes down to understanding the application requirements and performance required from the joint.
If you would like to speak to our expert team about your next project, please contact us for tailored advice and product recommendations to suit your application.