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TPV
Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV) are part of the thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) family of polymers, but are closest in elastomeric properties to EPDM thermoset rubber, combining the characteristics of vulcanized rubber with the processing properties of thermoplastics. TPV is a dynamically vulcanized alloy consisting mostly of fully cured EPDM rubber particles encapsulated in a polypropylene (PP) matrix. There are almost 100 grades in the S portfolio which are used globally in the automotive, household appliance, electrical, construction and healthcare markets. The name “Santoprene” was trademarked in 1977 by Monsanto and the trademark is now owned by ExxonMobil. Similar material is available from Elastron and others.
Overview
Santoprene pellets TPV was created following several years of research and development to find a new material for injection molded tires. While this search for a new tire material was unsuccessful, it led to the development of TPV, which combines the characteristics of a vulcanized rubber with the processing properties of thermoplastics. The first sales of developmental products were in 1977, the year it was registered by Monsanto, and it was fully commercialized in 1981.
Part of the TPE family of polymers, TPV is the closest in elastomeric properties to EPDM thermoset rubber. TPVs offer a combination of elastomeric properties, like compression and tension set, coupled with aging performance and chemical resistance.
Early successes
Santoprene TPV enjoyed early application successes in the automotive sector, including rack and pinion boots, due to its flex life, fluid resistance and sealability. In the appliance sector, a dishwasher sump boot made with Santoprene TPV provided good sealing and resistance to heat and fluids. Due to its sealing properties, Santoprene TPV was also successful in the domestic and high-rise construction sectors in applications such as window seals, caster wheels, tubing and small hose parts, electrical connectors and coatings for wire and cables. It was also used in the medical industry as a gasket on syringe plungers.