Elastomer plastics have transformed industrial manufacturing thanks to their unique ability to combine elasticity and strength. These materials provide flexible solutions for creating products with specific properties, ranging from automotive components to medical applications.
If you’re looking for a versatile material to meet the demands of your most challenging projects, elastomer plastics might be exactly what you need. At Atienza y Climent, as experts in comprehensive product design, we explain what they are and how they can be used.
What are elastomer plastics?
Industrial elastomer plastics are polymers with exceptional elasticity. This means they can deform under stress and return to their original shape once the applied force is removed. This property makes them ideal for applications where flexibility and durability are essential.
Additionally, they combine characteristics of both plastics and rubber, placing them in a unique category within polymeric materials. Thanks to their molecular structure, they offer a wide range of properties that make them indispensable in industries such as automotive, footwear, and construction.
Key features of elastomer plastics
Elastomer plastics and fibers are distinguished by several key characteristics that set them apart from other polymers:
- Elasticity: They return to their original shape after being deformed.
- Durability: Resistant to wear, impact, and extreme conditions.
- Versatility: Adaptable to various applications due to a wide range of compositions.
- Chemical Resistance: Many can withstand chemical agents like oils and fuels.
- Processability: Easy to mold and customize during manufacturing.
Differences between thermoplastic and thermoset elastomers
Thermoplastics and thermosets differ primarily in their behavior when exposed to heat. Thermoplastics can melt and be reshaped multiple times upon heating, making them easier to recycle and reuse. Thermosets, however, cannot be remelted after molding as their chemical structure is fixed through permanent cross-linking.
Classification of elastomer plastics
The types of elastomer plastics are classified based on their origin and chemical composition. This classification helps identify the most suitable material for each industrial project.
Types ofeElastomers: natural and synthetic
Elastomer plastics can be divided into two groups based on their origin:
- Natural: Derived from biological sources, such as natural rubber extracted from tree latex. These are biodegradable and suitable for specific applications.
- Synthetic: Manufactured through chemical processes. These include materials like polyurethane (PU) and silicone rubber, which are ideal for industrial uses due to their durability and strength.
Thermoplastic vs. thermoset elastomers
In this comparison, thermoplastic elastomers stand out for their recyclability and lower environmental impact, while thermoset elastomers offer greater heat and deformation resistance. Thermoplastics are preferred for applications like sports footwear or consumer products, while thermosets are commonly used in seals and automotive parts exposed to high temperatures.
Applications of elastomer plastics
Thanks to their combination of mechanical and chemical properties, thermoset and thermoplastic elastomers are essential materials in various industries.
Industrial uses of elastomers
Industrial elastomer plastics are widely used in sectors such as:
- Automotive: Commonly used in tires, seals, and vibration-damping components.
- Construction: Frequently found in sealants and insulation materials.
- Electronics: Perfect for cable coatings and flexible components.
- Medical: Ideal for manufacturing prosthetics, catheters, and flexible medical devices.
Examples of products Made with Elastomers
Among the types of thermoset and thermoplastic plastics, we find various products, such as:
- Tires: Made with synthetic rubber for durability and resistance.
- Shoe soles: Manufactured with polyurethane for flexibility and lightness.
- Seals and gaskets: Used in hydraulic systems and engines.
- Rubber bands: Produced with natural rubber for superior elasticity.
Advantages and disadvantages of elastomer plastics
Elastomer plastics are exceptional materials, but it’s important to consider both their advantages and limitations.
Advantages
- Exceptional elasticity: Ideal for dynamic applications.
- Resistance to impacts and deformation: Perfect for demanding conditions.
- Wide range of applications: From mass consumer products to specialized industrial uses.
- Processability: Highly versatile for manufacturing methods like injection molding.
- Resistance to external agents: Including chemicals, oils, and UV rays.
Disadvantages
- High cost: Some elastomers can be more expensive than other plastics.
- Thermal limitations: May deform or degrade under extreme temperatures.
- Recycling challenges: Particularly for thermosets.
- Petroleum dependency: In synthetic elastomers, affecting sustainability.
These materials are an ideal choice for many applications, provided the project’s needs and limitations are carefully evaluated. At Atienza y Climent, we have extensive experience in manufacturing products with elastomer plastics, making us leaders in providing high-quality solutions tailored to each industry