How to restore the original shape of TPE raw materials?

Among numerous polymer materials, TPE raw materials possess both rubber elasticity and plastic processing properties, and are widely used in various industries such as toys, automobiles, medical devices, and daily necessities. During use, TPE raw materials may deform for various reasons. So, how can we restore the original shape of TPE raw materials? Below, the TPE editor from Shenzhen Zhongsu Wang will provide a detailed introduction for everyone.

Method for restoring the original shape of TPE raw materials:

There are various reasons for the deformation of TPE raw materials. Long term exposure to external forces is a common situation. For example, a phone case made of TPE, if squeezed in the corner of a backpack for a long time, will gradually deform and lose its original shape that fits the contour of the phone. Temperature changes can also cause TPE deformation. In high temperature environments, the molecular chains of TPE become more active, undergo thermal expansion, and thus change shape; In low-temperature environments, the activity of molecular chains is limited, and materials may become brittle and shrink, leading to deformation. In addition, the erosion of chemical substances, such as certain solvents or acid-base substances, can also damage the molecular structure of TPE and cause it to deform.

To restore the original shape of TPE raw materials, the first step is to try the heat setting method. This method utilizes the thermoplastic properties of TPE. Place the deformed TPE raw material into a heating device, such as an oven or hot air gun, and heat it to the softening temperature of TPE. The softening temperature of different types of TPE varies, generally between 80 ℃ and 150 ℃. During the heating process, the molecular chains of TPE gradually become active and lose their original rigidity. At this point, use your hands or a mold to restore the TPE raw material to its original shape and maintain this shape for a period of time, allowing the molecular chains to rearrange. Then, slowly lower the temperature to allow the TPE to cool and solidify. The cooling rate should be moderate, as too fast may cause internal stress and affect the shape recovery effect; If it is too slow, efficiency will be low. For example, a deformed TPE toy, after being heated and shaped in this way, can often be restored to almost the same shape as the original.

If the heat setting method is not effective, solvent method can also be considered. Choose a solvent that has a slight dissolving effect on TPE, such as certain alcohol or ketone solvents. Soaking the deformed TPE raw material in a solvent will allow the solvent to penetrate into the interior of the TPE, creating a certain distance between the molecular chains and increasing the plasticity of the material. During the soaking process, TPE is also restored to its original shape by hand or using a mold. The soaking time should be adjusted according to the type of solvent and the material of TPE. Generally, it should not be too long to avoid excessive dissolution and damage to the material. After soaking, remove the TPE raw material and let the solvent evaporate naturally. After the solvent evaporates, the molecular chains of TPE will rearrange tightly, thus restoring their shape. However, when using solvent methods, safety should be taken into account to avoid solvent evaporation causing harm to the human body, while also considering the impact of solvents on the environment.

In addition to the above methods, mechanical force can also be combined to assist in restoring shape. For some locally deformed TPE raw materials, tools such as pliers, wrenches, etc. can be used to apply appropriate mechanical force to restore them to their original shape. During the process of applying mechanical force, attention should be paid to the strength to avoid excessive force that may cause TPE to break. At the same time, it can be combined with heating or solvent treatment to improve the effect of shape recovery.

Overall, restoring the original shape of TPE raw materials is a comprehensive process that requires selecting appropriate methods based on specific circumstances. Whether it is heat setting method, solvent method or mechanical force assisted method, they are all based on a deep understanding of the characteristics of TPE materials. With the continuous advancement of technology, there may be more efficient and environmentally friendly methods emerging in the future to help us better solve the problem of TPE raw material deformation, allowing TPE materials to continue to play their unique role in various fields.