Introduction
TPSiV™ is a ThermoPlastic Silicone Vulcanizate. These materials are a novel family of TPV products based on cross-linked silicone rubber dispersed into various engineering thermoplastics. The dispersion of the silicone internal phase is produced by dynamic “vulcanization” or cross-linking of silicone polymers within the thermoplastic organic phase and results in a stable droplet type morphology as shown in the TEM micrograph. TPSiV™ combines the elastomeric performance of silicone rubber with the melt re-processability and thermal and chemical resistance of engineering thermoplastics.

Product Range
TPSiV™ has been commercialized using various engineering thermoplastics, but of greatest interest are polyamide and polyurethanes thermoplastics.

Nylon based TPSiV™ (1180-50D) has found use as the jacketing material in automotive brake cables due to its excellent temperature and chemical resistance (Read a case history on TPSiV's ability to help improve flexible brake hose assemblies).

Thermoplastic polyurethane based TPSiV™ (3010, 3011, 3111, 3040, 3340 grades) combine the benefits of excellent abrasion resistance from the polyurethane as well as the lower coefficient of friction and improved temperature properties from the silicone rubber.

TPSiV™ 3010-50A / 60A: Designed to have a low compression set and tension set as well as excellent dielectric strength. Recommended for injection molding applications and bonds to PC, ABS, PU, and PVC. The 60A product is plasticizer free.

TPSiV™ 3011-50A / 60A / 70A / 85A: General purpose grades designed for both injection molding and extrusion applications. Plasticizer free (except the 50A product), which results in excellent bonding via 2-shot molding or co-extrusion to PC, ABS, PU, and PVC. They display good tensile and tear strength.

TPSiV™ 3111-70A: Designed for good stability in water contact applications and other aqueous solutions. Plasticizer free, and is currently being used in both NSF61 and FDA (Section 177.2600: 'Rubber articles intended for repeated use') applications.

TPSiV™ 3040-55A / 60A / 65A / 70A / 85A: Plasticizer free, these grades are designed for good flow characteristics and a unique “silky” feel. They are used in injection molding applications, specifically overmolding and co-molding on PC and ABS. They exhibit good abrasion resistance, and good retention of properties in harsh environments. They are commonly used in communication devices, computers, and electronic devices. They “set up” quickly in the mold, thus yielding fairly fast cycle times.

TPSiV™ 3340-55A / 60A / 65A: Designed for excellent UV stability in all colors and is used in injection molding applications, specifically overmolding and co-molding on PC and ABS. They are commonly used in communication devices, computers, and electronic devices.

Processing
TPSiV™ can be processed on standard thermoplastic equipment through a variety of methods, including extrusion, injection molding, co-molding, over-molding and co-extrusion. In addition, selective grades can be cohesive and adhesive bonded to PC, ABS, PU, PVC and PA substrates without adhesives or primers.

Pre-drying of TPSiV™ materials is recommended prior to processing to minimize potential moisture-related problems. Drying for 2-4 hours at 80°C (175°F) in a dessicant type dryer is recommended to achieve good results.

TPSiV™ can be reprocessed without a significant loss in performance, resulting in lower waste and scrap and making them more competitive against thermoset rubbers. TPSiV™ thermoplastic elastomers are available in black or natural (white in color) and can be easily colored.

Click here for TPSiV ™ material data sheets.

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