5. Conclusion

TPEs and TPVs, thanks to their specific combination of the ease of processing of thermoplastics and the elasticity of their soft phase, partly bridge the gap between traditional thermoplastics and vulcanized rubbers. This unique combination has ensured their faster economic development than that of thermoplastics for several years now, and consumption forecasts remain optimistic for the years ahead. The range of general-purpose products is technically diversified, covering the majority of needs, technical requirements and applications. SBS, SEBS, TPO, TPE/PVC, MPR and polyolefins alloyed with various phases of dynamically cross-linked elastomer meet a wide range of mechanical and chemical properties specific to each family, while dynamic cross-linking of the elastomer phase, where possible, improves elasticity. Growth is driven partly by market share gains at the expense of cross-linked...