Material design and manufacture of a new thermoplastic polyester elastomer

Abstract

Two novel thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE) were developed. One is an alloy of TPEE and SBC (styrene block copolymer). It exhibits a low compression set (Cs), high softness and high adhesiveness to PS (polystyrene), ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer), PC (polycarbonate), etc. Adhesion after double injection is extremely stable and durable. By these alloys, many new superimposed products can be produced easily with double injection. The other is TPEE modified by the grafting of an acid-anhydride group. It bonds polyester to PA (polyamide) or EVOH (ethylene vinylalcohol copolymer) with sufficient adhesion even at elevated temperatures (80-120°C). These properties have been used to create many new multi-layer products. This modified TPEE also improves properties of PA or EVOH, such as pinhole resistance. These materials contribute to the reduction of environmental loads and enhance flexibility of superimposed article shape. The SPSJ Award was given to mark the originality of this new adhesive elastomer and its contribution to producing superimposed articles. © 2008 The Society of Polymer Science.