TPU material is a group of thermoplastic elastomers with good elasticity and resistance to stresses like abrasion and oil lubricants. Its structure consists of soft and hard segments linked together in the chain.
Is TPU flexible?
The number and character of these segments can vary, resulting in a different material hardness of TPU from soft (Shore 30A) to very hard (Shore 100A), so the material is used both as soft engineering plastic and tough rubber.
Is TPU strong?
TPU is widely used as an additive for strengthening other materials. For example, composites of TPU and Polycarbonate or ABS have an improved flexural modulus up to 150, 000 psi. Though pure TPU tensile strength is around 5076 psi (for Shore 70A).
In addition to hardness, TPUs can be manufactured with different base material components. There are three subgroups – polyester, polyether, and polycaprolactone:
Polyester TPU – usually recommended for parts subject to abrasion. This group has great chemical and oil resistance, and its properties are stable, which leads to many uses in material blends.
Polyether TPU – suitable for underwater applications. Characteristics include excellent hydrolysis resistance and can withstand microbes and tear stress, keeping flexibility in low temperatures.
Polycaprolactone TPU – combines durability and toughness with great performance in cold and hydrolysis resistance. Successfully used in seals.
