Specifications and Industry Applications TPU raw materials for films are widely used in various industries due to their excellent performance. The following is a detailed English – language introduction: 1. Basic Information TPU is the abbreviation of thermoplastic polyurethane, also known as thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer. TPU raw materials for films are usually made by polymerizing three main raw materials: polyols, diisocyanates, and chain extenders. Polyols provide the soft segment of TPU, endowing it with flexibility and elasticity. Diisocyanates react with polyols to form the hard segment, which contributes to the strength and durability of TPU. Chain extenders are used to increase the molecular weight and improve the mechanical properties of TPU. 2. Production Process TPU films are made from TPU granular materials through processes such as calendering, casting, blowing, and coating. Among them, the melt – extrusion process is a common method. First, the polyurethane is mixed with various additives, such as plasticizers to enhance flexibility, stabilizers to improve heat and light resistance, and pigments for coloring. Then, it is heated and melted, and finally forced through a die to form a continuous film, which is cooled and wound into a roll. The cooling process is crucial as it affects the crystallization and orientation of the TPU molecules, thus influencing the final properties of the film. 3. Performance Characteristics 3.1 Physical Properties TPU films have excellent flexibility and elasticity, and can be stretched and deformed to a certain extent, and can return to their original shape without deformation, which is suitable for scenarios that require frequent bending and twisting. For example, in the production of flexible electronics, TPU films can conform to the curved surfaces of devices. At the same time, it also has high tensile strength and tear – resistance strength, which can effectively resist external impact and damage. This makes TPU films suitable for applications in protective packaging, where they need to withstand rough handling. 3.2 Chemical Properties TPU films have good chemical corrosion resistance, and have a certain tolerance to common acids, alkalis, solvents, etc., and are not easy to be corroded. In particular, the hydrolysis resistance of polyether – type TPU films allows them to maintain stable performance in water – rich environments. This property makes them ideal for use in applications such as underwater coatings and waterproof membranes. 3.3 Weather Resistance TPU films can maintain stable performance in different temperature environments. They are not easy to become hard and brittle in low – temperature environments, nor are they easy to soften and deform in high – temperature environments. They also have a certain ability to resist ultraviolet rays, and are not easy to age and fade under long – term light exposure. This makes TPU films suitable for outdoor applications, such as automotive exterior trim and outdoor furniture covers. 4. Main Processing Methods The main processing methods of TPU films include blow – molding, casting, and calendering. Through blow – molding, TPU films with different thicknesses and widths can be produced by inflating a molten TPU tube. Casting involves pouring a liquid TPU formulation onto a flat surface and allowing it to solidify. Calendering uses rollers to press and shape the TPU into a film of the desired thickness. These methods can produce TPU films of different thicknesses, widths, and colors to meet the needs of different application scenarios. For example, thin and transparent TPU films are often used in packaging, while thicker and colored films may be used in decorative applications. 5. Application Fields TPU films can be compounded with a variety of fabrics to make shoe – upper fabrics with waterproof and breathable functions, or decorative fabrics, which are widely used in casual clothes, sunscreen clothes, underwear, raincoats, windbreakers, T – shirts, sportswear and other fabrics. In the medical field, TPU films are used in applications such as wound dressings and medical device coatings due to their biocompatibility. In addition, TPU has also been widely used in shoe materials, inflatable toys, sports equipment, automotive seat materials, umbrellas, suitcases, handbags and other fields. For example, in sports equipment, TPU films are used to make protective pads and grips, providing both comfort and durability.
Post time: Jul-22-2025