What are the Properties of Polyurethane TPU?
TPU is widely used due to its excellent properties.
Similar to cast polyurethane (liquid) and millable polyurethane (solid), TPU offers high modulus, high strength, high elongation, and excellent elasticity, along with outstanding wear resistance, oil resistance, low-temperature performance, and aging resistance. Notably, TPU stands out for its high tensile strength, large elongation at break, and low compression set over time.
Let's explore its mechanical properties:
①High tensile strength and elongation:
TPU excels in both tensile strength and elongation. According to data, polyether-based TPU outperforms PVC plastics and rubber in these areas.
Additionally, TPU can meet the requirements of the food industry even with minimal or no additives, which is difficult for materials like PVC or rubber.
②Elasticity highly sensitive to temperature:
The elasticity of TPU refers to its ability to return to its original shape after deformation stress is released, measured by its recovery energy. .that is, the ratio of the energy recovered during deformation to the energy consumed in producing the deformation. TPU's rebound resilience is highly sensitive to temperature; as the temperature rises, its resilience significantly improves.
③ Wide Hardness Range with Strong Correlation to Other Properties
TPU typically offers a hardness range from 60A to 85D. As hardness increases, the material's tensile strength, tear strength, and abrasion resistance are enhanced. However, higher hardness also leads to a decrease in elongation at break and low-temperature flexibility.
④ Excellent Abrasion Resistance
TPU demonstrates superior abrasion resistance compared to both natural and synthetic rubbers, performing particularly well under both dry and wet friction conditions. Its wear volume is much lower than that of conventional rubber materials, making it ideal for high-wear applications.
⑤ Good Low-Temperature Performance
TPU maintains excellent flexibility and elasticity even at low temperatures, down to -40°C. This makes it especially suitable for use in cold regions or low-temperature environments.
⑥ Outstanding Oil and Chemical Resistance
TPU offers good resistance to various oils and chemicals, particularly mineral oils, lubricating greases, and many solvents. Polyester-based TPU exhibits better oil and chemical resistance than polyether-based TPU.
⑦ Excellent Aging Resistance
TPU has excellent resistance to oxygen aging and ozone degradation, ensuring stable performance over time and a long service life.
What are the typical applications of TPU?
Thanks to its excellent combination of mechanical and chemical properties, TPU has a wide range of applications:
Automotive industry:
TPU is used for cable jackets, control panels, gearshift gaskets, sealing components, and protective covers due to its wear resistance and flexibility.
Consumer electronics:
Used for phone cases, laptop shells, and wearable devices, offering a soft touch and excellent impact resistance.
Footwear industry:
TPU is widely used in outsoles and midsoles of sports shoes, providing durability, elasticity, and abrasion resistance.
Industrial applications:
Conveyor belts, drive belts, pipes, and industrial rollers take advantage of TPU's wear resistance and flexibility.
Medical field:
TPU is used in medical tubing, catheters, and protective films because it is biocompatible and resistant to body fluids and disinfectants.
Sports and leisure equipment:
Used in inflatable boats, diving suits, and protective gear thanks to its high elasticity and toughness.
Textiles and films:
TPU films and fibers are used in waterproof and breathable fabrics, adhesive layers for laminated materials, and flexible packaging.