SPE Automotive TPO Global Conference 2010 - Auto-tpo.com

Abstract Title : Foam Extrusion of Themoplastic Elastomer Vulcanizates
TPO conference Abstract : Material Developments
Abstract
Thermoplastic Elastomer Vulcanizates prepared by dynamic vulcaninzing process, is a
material which has both the properties of a thermosetting rubber and thermoplastics. TPEV is
rapidly replacing vulcanized rubber and flexible PVC in various industrial regions for its cost
effectiveness and eco-friendliness. Recently these requirements for replacing rubbers have
expanded to foaming area.
TPEV is a difficult material to foam due to its unique morphology and low melt strength.
In this presentation, high melt strength TPEV/layered silicate nanocomposites were prepared
by usage of nano-clay acting as a nucleus for bubble formation and high melt strength
polypropylene to provide high melt strength during foaming process. Compared to general
TPEV, high melt strength TPEV/layered silicate nanocomposites shows improved melt
strength behavior, cell density and cell distribution when extrusion foamed.
Compared to conventional TPEV, Foam-TPEV has controllable density and improved
compression set properties. These unique properties of Foam-TPEV can be applied in various
automotive parts. (weather-strips, overslam bumpers, etc…)
Keywords: Thermoplastic Elastomer Vulccanizate, Nanocomposite, HMSPP, Foam.
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