Lubrizol TPU Thermoplastic Polyurethane
The Lubrizol Corporation, formerly known as BF Goodrich, began developing synthetic rubber compounding technologies as early as the 1950s and is one of the world’s earliest pioneers in the research, development, and promotion of TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane). Lubrizol not only invented and commercialized TPU materials, but also strengthened its global market leadership by acquiring the TPU businesses of Dow Chemical and SK Chemicals in 2008. Today, Lubrizol is one of the world’s largest TPU manufacturers.
In addition, Lubrizol is the only global TPU producer offering UL-certified flame-retardant TPU grades, demonstrating a high level of reliability and technological leadership in material safety, stability, and quality control. Its products are widely trusted and adopted across the automotive, electronics, medical, and textile industries.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is an engineering-grade elastomer that combines high tensile strength with excellent flexibility, featuring the following characteristics:
- Excellent waterproof performance and oxygen permeability
- Strong adhesion with low risk of delamination
- Polyester- and polyether-based grades with natural degradability, capable of decomposing in soil over several decades, offering environmental benefits
- Widely used in European and American markets as a replacement for PVC, particularly in textile lamination and garment processing applications
Product Features Overview
- High abrasion resistance, suitable for high-wear applications
- High toughness and strength with excellent tensile and tear resistance
- Outstanding fatigue resistance for long-term bending and repeated use
- Good oil resistance for use in oily environments
- Excellent elasticity with rubber-like rebound and softness
- No plasticizers required, resulting in a more environmentally friendly process with no toxic migration
- Strong low-temperature resistance, maintaining flexibility in cold conditions
- Environmentally friendly and non-toxic, suitable for infant and medical applications
- Wide hardness range; low-hardness grades achieve tensile strength close to vulcanized rubber
- Versatile processing methods, including injection molding, extrusion, blown film, and calendering
Main Applications
- Textile and garment lamination (functional fabrics, waterproof jackets, sportswear)
- Footwear components (outsoles, midsoles, support structures)
- Packaging materials (biodegradable packaging films)
- Electronic accessories (phone cases, wire and cable insulation)
- Medical products (catheters, elastic bandages)
- Automotive applications (seals, hoses, interior trim components)
- Children’s products (non-toxic toys, protective pads)
- Industrial products (mechanical parts, industrial belts)
Estane® Series – 58000
Characteristics: Designed for extrusion processes such as films, tubing, and cable jacketing
Applications: Medical tubing, cable jackets, transparent packaging films, and flexible hoses
