TPV (Thermoplastic Vulcanizate) is a high-performance elastomer prepared by a dynamic vulcanization process. Its microstructure consists of a cross-linked rubber phase dispersed in a thermoplastic continuous phase. According to the ASTM D1566 standard definition, TPV combines the elasticity of rubber with the reproducible processability of thermoplastics, becoming a key material to replace traditional vulcanized rubber (such as EPDM, NBR).
2. Technical Properties of TPV: Data-Driven Advantages
2.1 Mechanical Performance and Durability
Compression set rate: Under 70°C×22h conditions, the compression set rate of TPV material is <25%, which is better than EPDM (30-40%) and silicone (35-50%), ensuring the long-term service stability of the seal.
Fatigue resistance: Dynamic load test (ASTM D430) shows that the tensile strength retention rate of TPV material is >90% after 10^7 cycles, which is suitable for sealing industrial equipment with high-frequency vibration.
2.2 Chemical and Environmental Resistance
Oil resistance: After immersion in IRM 903 oil for 70 hours, the volume expansion rate of TPV material is <10%, while the expansion rate of NBR rubber is 25-35%.
Anti-UV aging: After 3000 hours of xenon lamp aging test, the elongation at break retention rate of TPV material is >80%, and there is no cracking on the surface.
2.3 Processing Efficiency
Melt flow rate (MFR): The MFR range of TPV materials supports injection molding of complex structures with wall thickness as low as 0.5mm.
Energy consumption comparison: The comprehensive energy consumption for producing 1 ton of TPV seals is 1.2×10^4 MJ, which is 42% lower than EPDM (2.1×10^4 MJ).
3. Construction Sealing Applications: Technical Compatibility
3.1 Window and Door Sealing Systems
Air tightness index: The air permeability of building exterior windows using TPV sealing strips can reach below 0.5 m³/(m·h), which is 2 levels higher than the EPDM sealing solution.
Thermal performance: The thermal conductivity of TPV (0.25 W/m·K) is comparable to that of EPDM, but its low density (0.95-1.2 g/cm³) can reduce the material usage by 15-20%.
3.2 Roofing and Waterproofing Systems
Weathering resistance verification: After the wet heat cycle test (70°C×95% RH→-20°C, 1000 cycles), the joint peel strength retention rate of TPV waterproofing membrane is >85% (JC/T 1075-2008 standard).
Service life: The accelerated aging model predicts that the service life of TPV-based waterproofing systems in a temperate climate is ≥35 years, far exceeding the 15-20 years of modified asphalt materials.
3.3 Pipeline Sealing and Seismic Compensation
Earthquake-resistant design: The elastic recovery rate of the TPV sealing ring is >95%, which can compensate for the ±10mm axial displacement of the pipeline system caused by temperature changes or foundation settlement.
Chemical resistance: It has long-term tolerance to acid and alkali solutions of pH 2-12, chlorides, ethylene glycol, etc.
4. Industrial Sealing Innovations: Technical Breakthroughs
4.1 Hydraulic and Pneumatic Seals
High-pressure tolerance: The leakage rate of TPV seals in a 35 MPa hydraulic oil environment is <0.1 mL/min, and the friction coefficient is stable at 0.2-0.3.
Low-temperature adaptability: In a -40°C environment, the brittle temperature of TPV is lower than -55°C, avoiding the risk of low-temperature brittle cracking of NBR rubber.
4.2 Chemical Equipment Seals
Media compatibility: For highly corrosive media such as acetic acid, aniline, and ketones, the volume swelling rate of high-saturation TPV is less than 5%, and the service life is extended by 50% compared with FKM rubber.
Clean production: The TPV processing process does not require vulcanizing agents (such as sulfur and peroxides), avoiding VOCs emissions in traditional rubber production.
4.3 Renewable Energy Applications
Battery pack sealing: TPV's flame retardancy rating can reach UL 94 V-0 (3mm thickness), and its volume resistivity is >10^15 Ω·cm, which is suitable for the high-voltage insulation requirements of electric vehicles.
Hydrogen energy storage and transportation: TPV's permeability in a 70 MPa hydrogen environment is <0.5 cm³/(m²·day·bar), which meets the SAE J2719 requirements for hydrogen storage bottle sealing materials.
TPV VS. EPDM VS. Silicone
| Property |
TPV |
EPDM |
Silicone |
| Max. Temp. |
150°C |
120°C |
200°C |
| Recyclability |
100% |
Non-recyclable |
Non-recyclable |
| Oil Resistance (ΔV%) |
<10 (IRM903, 70h) |
>30 |
>50 |
| Processing Energy |
40 MJ/kg |
75 MJ/kg |
90 MJ/kg |
| Density (g/cm³) |
0.95–1.2 |
1.1–1.3 |
1.1–1.3 |
Dawnprene TPV 13- 67A and Dawnprene TPV 13- 55A are grades specially developed for construction seals.
They combine good physical properties, chemical resistance and elasticity, designed for extrusion and injection applications. They can be processed on conventional thermoplastics equipment for extrusion and injection molding. They are polyolefin-based and completely recyclable.
Conclusion
TPV material, with its unparalleled combination of environmental resilience, processing efficiency, and sustainability, is redefining technical benchmarks in construction and industrial sealing.
As an innovative pioneer in the field of thermoplastic elastomers, Dawnprene® TPV series materials can not only solve the life and environmental bottlenecks of traditional rubber but also meet the needs of global customers for efficient, intelligent, and green sealing solutions with customizable formulas.
If you are looking for a TPV supplier, don't miss Dawnprene® TPV!
