Handbook of Thermoplastic Elastomers

9780815515494

0815515499

Thermoplastic elastomers are one of the most in-demand groups of materials today. Their most attractive feature is that they can be processed like plastics, yet they exhibit properties that are close to vulcanized rubber. Consequently, they can be produced in a highly cost-effective way, using short production cycles, with a considerably reduced energy consumption, and minimum production scrap. Moreover, because they are thermoplastics, production scrap as well as post-consumer scrap can be easily recycled. This unique practical reference work compiles in one place the current working knowledge of chemistry, processing, physical and mechanical properties, as well as applications of thermoplastic elastomers. Because of the great number of thermoplastic elastomers and the variety of chemistries involved, the work is divided into chapters describing individual commercial groups. A significant part of this book is dedicated to processing methods, applications, and material data sheets. Chapters on processing methods and applications are enhanced with ample illustrations. Each chapter includes a comprehensive list of references for a more in-depth study. Other features are a list of current suppliers, ISO nomenclature, an extensive bibliography, a list of recent patents and a glossary of terms. The work is concluded by a chapter on newest developments and trends. This reference work has been designed for industrial practitioners in the rubber and plastic processing industries, as well as for design engineers designing a variety of products in the automotive, machine building, construction, medicaldevices, and consumer goods industries. It is also intended to be used as a comprehensive textbook for students specializing in applied polymer science and technology.