What is TPE Sponge Rubber?

TPE Sponge Rubber is an elastomeric foam based on thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). It combines the flexibility of rubber with the processing advantages of thermoplastics, making it an excellent choice for sealing, cushioning and insulation applications.

Depending on the application, TPE sponge rubber is available in open-cell or closed-cell structures. For technical sealing applications, closed-cell grades are predominantly used because they provide low water absorption and excellent sealing performance.

Thanks to its low weight, flexibility and cost-efficient processing by extrusion or injection moulding, TPE sponge rubber is widely used in industrial applications.

Properties

• Temperature resistance from approximately -40 °C to +100 °C
• Available in open-cell or closed-cell structures
• Lightweight
• Good elasticity and recovery properties
• Good resistance to weathering, ozone and UV radiation
• Good resistance to water and moisture
• Good thermal and acoustic insulation
• Excellent vibration and shock absorption
• Recyclable and easy to process

Typical applications

TPE sponge rubber is commonly used for:

• Sealing profiles
• Window and door seals
• Enclosure seals
• Automotive seals
• Cable grommets
• Protective profiles
• Sound insulation
• Vibration damping
• Technical moulded parts

Typical industries include:

• Automotive industry
• Mechanical engineering
• Construction industry
• Electrical industry
• Household appliances
• Industrial equipment

Limitations

TPE sponge rubber has limited resistance to mineral oils, fuels and certain organic solvents. For applications involving aggressive chemicals or high operating temperatures, materials such as FKM, FFKM or PTFE are often more suitable.