Santoprene™ is a high-performance thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). Thermoplastic elastomers are a diverse family of rubber-like materials that, unlike conventional thermoset rubber, can be processed and recycled within the manufacturing process like thermoplastic materials.
More specifically, Santoprene™ is a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), meaning Santoprene™ is fully dynamically vulcanized EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber in a thermoplastic matrix of polypropylene (PP). It looks, feels, and behaves like rubber but, due to the PP content, offers simple, flexible part design and manufacturing. It is essentially a high-performance elastomer that exhibits the properties of rubber while providing the ease of processing plastics. It has also proven to be a dependable polymer for flexible engineered parts that require long-term performance. With the potential for reduced system costs and increased sustainability, compared to materials such as thermoset rubber, Santoprene™ TPV has become the global standard for engineered TPV.
Combining the characteristics of vulcanized rubber with the processing ease of thermoplastics, Santoprene™ TPV offers a sealing solution that is durable and attractive for various market segments, including automotive, household, electrical, construction, and healthcare.
Santoprene™ TPV is manufactured by ExxonMobil and comes in various grades. Depending on the ratio of EPDM rubber to PP, the physical properties such as hardness, modulus and flexibility will vary.
How does Santoprene™ differ from EPDM?
Santoprene™ has EPDM rubber's look, feel, and behavior but can be processed on conventional thermoplastic processing equipment, allowing for a simplified manufacturing process. Another advantage of Santoprene™ over EPDM rubber is a weight reduction of up to 30% for parts with a similar design.
Be sure to check out our popular Tamco® Tank Fittings featuring Santoprene™ gaskets.
Title: What is Santoprene™?
Description: Santoprene™ Thermoplastic Vulcanizate
Published: 3/12/2015
Last Edited: 1/23/2023
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