What are the specific manifestations of performance degradation in TPE thermoplastic elastomers after moisture absorption?

In today's global era advocating green, eco-friendly, and sustainable development, material selection and application have become key indicators for measuring the environmental performance of products or industries. TPE thermoplastic elastomers, as a novel material combining the elasticity of rubber with the processing convenience of plastics, are increasingly becoming the preferred choice for sustainable development. So, what are the specific manifestations of performance degradation in TPE thermoplastic elastomers after moisture absorption? Below, the Zhongsu Wang TPE team will address this issue.

The specific manifestations of performance degradation in TPE thermoplastic elastomers after moisture absorption are as follows:

I. Appearance Defects

After moisture absorption, TPE thermoplastic elastomers release water vapor during high-temperature processing, easily causing defects such as bubbles, silver streaks, and flow marks on the product surface. These cosmetic issues not only compromise product aesthetics but may also reduce structural integrity, particularly noticeable in transparent or light-colored items.

II. Deterioration of Mechanical Properties

Moisture absorption weakens intermolecular forces within TPE, resulting in reduced tensile strength, lower elongation at break, and diminished elasticity. Certain materials may also exhibit decreased hardness and reduced abrasion resistance, impacting product longevity and reliability.

III. Deterioration of Processing Performance

Moisture absorption destabilizes the melt flow of TPE thermoplastic elastomers, increasing susceptibility to molding defects like spitting and flash. Water also impedes thorough plasticization of raw materials, causing uneven melt temperatures that compromise processing precision. Additionally, prolonged processing of high-moisture TPE may corrode equipment, raising maintenance costs.

IV. Deterioration of Long-Term Performance

Moisture-absorbed TPE products exhibit accelerated aging and poor dimensional stability during use. Water accelerates material oxidation and degradation, causing rapid loss of elasticity and strength. For TPEs used in electronics and appliances, moisture absorption may also reduce insulation properties, posing safety hazards.

As outlined above, moisture absorption in TPE thermoplastic elastomers leads to comprehensive degradation in appearance, mechanical properties, processing performance, and long-term service life, severely compromising product quality. Therefore, manufacturers must prioritize drying processes for TPE materials, strictly control moisture content, and enhance storage management to prevent raw material dampness. Through scientific management and technical measures, the adverse effects of moisture absorption can be effectively mitigated, ensuring the high quality and stability of TPE products.