What are thermoplastic elastomers?

The material consists of elastic polymer polymer chains and thermoplastic areas. They combine the most important features of both material classes: the elasticity and pressure resistance of elastomers and the formability of thermoplasticsat higher temperatures. On cooling, the plastic solidifies again and returns to its elastic properties. It thus forms an intermediate link between elastomers and thermoplastics. However, this significantly reduces the thermal and mechanical resilience of the rubber. They should therefore be seen as a niche product in cases where the combination of these properties is required and do not replace the use of elastomers.