Goodyear's masterbatch will enhance SEBS and EPDM TPV-based compounds

Goodyear's masterbatch will enhance SEBS and EPDM TPV-based compounds

Goodyear Chemical has launched a new masterbatch designed to enhance the performance of thermoplastic elastomer compounds based on SEBS and EPDM TPV. Called Serel, the innovative masterbatch is based on solution styrene butadiene rubber (S-SBR) in a thermoplastic matrix.

Claimed performance enhancements for both SEBS and TPVs include improved oil resistance, better sealing performance and greater wet grip. In addition, the continuous use temperature for SEBS is increased. TPE/plastics business manager Meg Noethen said TPEs enhanced with Serel will be “better placed to compete with thermoset rubber, while still providing the typical TPE benefits of design flexibility and reduced cycle time”.

Serel R&D team leader Manoj Ajbani said that using the masterbatch in SEBS did lead to some reduction in tensile strength and elongation at break, but that the levels were still better or comparable to EPDM. Target applications for TPE compounds incorporating Serel masterbatch include handgrips for power tools and sporting goods and seals for pipes, industrial products and windows.