At first glance, the idea of a car devoid of parts made from cured elastomers or Thermoset Rubbers (TSRs) might seem like an ambitious fantasy. However, recent advancements in raw materials and production technologies for automotive components have brought us closer to turning this concept into reality. Despite this, the transition is not without its challenges.
Cured elastomers play an indispensable role in various car parts, including fluid and oil transmission hoses, power transmission belts, gaskets, seals, and vibration and force absorbers. On average, each vehicle incorporates approximately 500 to 700 parts, weighing around 22 kg in total, made from different types of TSRs.
About a decade ago, the advent of TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) and TPV (Thermoplastic Vulcanized) technologies marked a significant paradigm shift. These polymer families exhibit processability similar to thermoplastics while retaining physical and mechanical properties akin to TSRs. As a result, they emerged as the primary alternatives to traditional elastomers in automotive applications. In contemporary vehicles, TPE and TPVs have already supplanted elastomers in various applications, including seals and gaskets, flooring and carpets, as well as dust collectors and covers. However, challenges persist in replacing TSRs in applications requiring resistance to oil or high temperatures.
Nonetheless, the rising prominence of electric vehicles in the near future will redefine the specifications of raw materials used in automotive manufacturing. Special elastomers like ECO and ACM may become obsolete, paving the way for a smoother transition to TPE and TPV. Moreover, significant strides have already been made in the development of heat and oil-resistant TPE and TPV variants, with certain grommets and ducts under the car hood now being produced using these materials. Additionally, stringent environmental regulations, particularly in Europe, are progressively limiting the usage of TSRs, further propelling automotive engineers to explore alternative materials.
In conclusion, the advancement of TPE and TPV technologies, the shift towards electric vehicles, and the impact of environmental regulations are set to gradually diminish the reliance on TSRs and increase the prevalence of TPE and TPVs in future vehicle production.
Among the different families of TPE and TPV suitable for standard applications, the Olefinic and Styrenic groups are noteworthy. Furthermore, in the realm of engineering TPE and TPV resistant to heat and oil, the TPU and Polyester families deserve special mention.