TPU | THERMOPLASTIC POLYURETHANE

Thermoplastic polyurethane is an eclectic and transversal material that, when worked with mastery and technological expertise, offers endless possibilities of use and can be an inexhaustible source of stylistic as well as design inspiration.

Thickness, curvatures, widths and colors are all variables brought into play by Thermoplastic Polyurethane, perhaps better known by its acronym TPU, which turns out to be one of the most manipulable plastics and, for this reason, often proves to be the winning choice for the best possible customization.

TPU is an extremely versatile material, as a matter of fact, more than any other thermoplastic elastomer, it can provide a considerable number of combinations of physical properties, which make it extremely flexible and adaptable to multiple uses and creations. This versatility comes from the unique structure that results in high resilience, as well as excellent resistance to impacts, abrasion, tearing, weathering, and even hydrocarbons.

TPU offers flexibility without the use of plasticizers, as well as a wide hardness range, and because of this, it bridges the gap between rubbers and plastics. As a matter of fact, its range of physical properties allows it to be used both as a hard rubber and as a soft thermoplastic material.

It can be sterilized, welded, colored, painted, molded, die-cut and cut; it is flexible at low temperatures and under certain conditions shows biocompatibility, hydrolytic stability, optical clarity, as well as flame retardant and antistatic properties.

Its use is recommended for hoses, gaskets, cables and/or wires, technical apparel, footwear, and all applications where there is a need for a material that can replicate rubber and provide strength and flexibility, as well as long service life. Resistance to chemicals and abrasion also makes thermoplastic polyurethane suitable for applications in harsh conditions, such as in the automotive industry because it has a good seal in contact with oils, greases, and fuel. In addition, the high impact resistance offered by the material also makes it a popular option for smartphone protectors and housings for other electronic devices.

It turns out to be a material that can be declined in many styles and lends itself to countless uses in every field of application, few are the limitations, especially for those with ingenuity to spare.