◾ Thermoplastic Elastomers: Advances in Thermoplastic Vulcanizates

Abstract

Broader families of these materials are becoming more familiar to a wider range of potential customers. The applications such as mobile phone grips, computer accessories, pen and toothbrush handles, knobs, and sports goods are targets for soft-touch feel using oilextended styrene-(ethylene-butylene)-styrene block copolymers and TPUs. Similarly in the automotive sector, driver-side airbag covers and instrument panel skins are targets for thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), TPV, and TPU materials, depending on the models, requirements, and philosophy toward design, style, and comfort. In this chapter, special attention has been given to the recent work on TPVs with an objective of not only updating the information but also appreciating the new developments in this field.