Elastomers
Shamrock micronized PTFE powders are used to provide performance properties such as wear resistance and surface slip. They also contribute to improving green and tear strength, as well as reducing slip-stick between surfaces. These free flowing powders are normally pre-mixed into master-batches or compounds in the resin of choice at levels from 20-40% by weight, to facilitate uniform distribution and performance in the final part.
NanoFLON® Series
Shamrock’s NanoFLON® products are made from emulsion grade Natural Prime PTFE. NanoFLON® products are offered as agglomerated particles to aid with free flow and ease of incorporation, with a primary particle size as low as 200 nanometers. They are being compounded into a variety of elastomers, and into PS, fluorinated polymers and PP compounds for films, to improve the surface lubricity and wear resistance.
Features and Benefits:
- Reduces Friction
- Enhances Wear Resistance
- Reduce Noise
- Thin Film Applications
- Micromolding Applications
- High Surface Area
| Typical Properties | Method | NanoFLON® 114T | NanoFLON® 119N | NanoFLON® 160N |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Particle Size Mean Value | ASTM D-4464 | 4-8 µm | 4-8 µm | 5-8 µm |
| 90% of Particles Under | ASTM D-4464 | 12 µm | 12 µm | 13 µm |
| Primary Particle Size | SEM | 0.2 µm | 0.2 µm | 0.2 µm |
Thermoplastic Elastomer
Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), commonly referred to as thermoplastic rubbers, is a polymer mix that consists of materials with both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties. These elastomers are commonly used when conventional elastomers cannot provide the range of physical properties needed for the product.
Shamrock’s thermoplastic elastomer products are EU regulatory compliant and are made from natural prime and recycled raw materials. TPE is commonly used in products to reduce friction and enhance anti-wear properties.
Advantages of TPE
TPE offers countless benefits. Some of the more common advantages are:
- Longer material life
- Better physical range
- Outstanding thermal properties
- Material stability
- Recyclability
Common Applications for TPE
TPE is used in several industries for countless products. Some of the more common products that use TPE are:
- Adhesives
- Footwear
- Medical Devices
- Automobile Parts
- Household Goods
The rubber-like properties of TPE allow for it to replace rubber that was commonly used in the applications above. TPE provides the same products with lower costs and higher design flexibility.
Characteristics of TPE
To assist with the identification of products that use PTE, look for the:
- Ability to stretch and return to its original shape.
- Ability to be processed as a melt at an elevated temperature.
- Absence of creep (moving and deforming under stress caused by pressure or temperature).
Choosing the Right TPE
TPEs can be tailored to meet your specific needs and are commonly characterized by feel, finish, and color.
Shamrock is the innovative leader in micropowders. Our dedicated people constantly strive to meet our customer’s expectations for service, quality, and delivery. Explore our thermoplastic elastomer additives to learn more.