Advances in Thermoplastic Elastomers: Challenges and Opportunities brings together the state-of-the-art in thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), covering innovative materials, synthesis techniques, processing methods and sustainability. Sections outline thermoplastic elastomers, rubber elastic, and thermoplastic vulcanizates, and review the current landscape, from research and published literature, to commercialization and patents. Subsequent chapters offer methodical coverage of different categories of advanced thermoplastic elastomer materials, including areas such as polyolefin-based TPEs and high performance TPEs. The final chapters in the book examine options for sustainability, including bio-based, bio-resourced, and biodegradable TPEs, as well as circular economy and recycling of TPEs.Finally, outlook and future market and research trends are reviewed. This is a valuable book for researchers and advanced students working with elastomers, polymer science, materials chemistry, and materials engineering. In an industrial setting, this is an essential resource for R&D professionals, scientists, and engineers looking to utilize thermoplastic elastomers in a range of advanced applications.
- Focuses on novel materials, such as polyolefin-based TPEs, fluorinated TPEs, silicone-based TPEs, and ionic TPEs
- Discusses sustainability in terms of bio-based or biocompatible TPEs, recycling and the circular economy
- Helps bridge the gap between research and commercialization, reviewing patents, literature, trends, and market.