Rapra Technology plans course on TPEs.

"Understanding thermoplastic elastomers," is the title of a short course to be held at Rapra Technology Ltd. in Shawbury, U.K., September 6-7, and again November 22-23.

Selection of the right TPE for a particular application can be difficult, with a wide range of materials to choose from, according to Rapra. The move from vulcanized rubber or thermoplastic to TPE is also said to be a difficult decision.

This course is designed to provide an understanding of the main types of thermoplastic elastomers available, and will give a comparison of chemical structure, manufacturers, grades, properties, compounding, processing and applications between each type of TPE.

Reference is made to the place of TPEs relative to vulcanized rubber and thermoplastics, and the future potential for these materials.

Enough basic polymer science will be included to understand these topics, and extensive use will be made of visual aids to assist participants.

As an additional benefit, the course will include reference notes and opportunities to network with colleagues throughout the supply chain.

This course is said to be of benefit to those involved in product design, engineering, quality, technical support and sales and marketing; material suppliers, processors and manufacturers of finished and semi-finished products/components; manufacturers considering TPEs as a replacement for vulcanized rubber; and anyone with an interest in TPEs wishing to gain a better understanding of the subject.

Course content will include an introduction to the course and discussion of the place of TPEs relative to vulcanized rubber and thermoplastics; basic polymer science relevant to understanding TPE structures, properties and processing; styrenic block copolymers, SBS, SIS, SEBS and functionalized SEBS; thermoplastic polyurethanes; copolyesters; olefinic rubber/ thermoplastic blends, EPR/PP and EPDM/PP (TPO): TPE blends with a dynamically vulcanized phase, EPDM/ PR NBR/PP and NR/PP (TPV); other TPEs, PVC and other blends, EVA, ionomers and single phase melt processible rubber (MPR), future developments and potential for TPEs; and a summary and course review.

Delegates will gain a better understanding of the main types of TPEs available and will be able to compare the chemical structure, grades, properties, compounding, processes and applications of each type of TPE, according to Rapra.

Barry Statham, an associate consultant, will act as the course tutor.

The course fee is 495 [pounds sterling] and includes lecture notes, lunch and refreshments.

Further information on this course is available from Gill Tunnicliffe, tel.: [phone]; fax: [phone].