The effect of phase separation microstructure on the behavior and mechanical properties of thermoplastic elastomers: A review

Document Type : Review Article

Authors
Milad Saadat Tagharoodi 1
Vahid Haddadi-Asl 1
Babak Karimigobaktappeh 2
Faezeh Zolfigol 1
1 Department of Polymer Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
2 Department of Polymer and color Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
10.22034/amnc.2024.468369.1267
Abstract
This review explores the properties and applications of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), focusing specifically on polyurethanes. Thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers attract significant attention due to their combined plastic and elastic properties, good processability by conventional methods, favorable thermal and mechanical properties, high abrasion resistance, low-temperature performance, high flexibility and elastic recovery. This paper categorizes different types of thermoplastic elastomers, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. The microstructure of these materials, which includes soft and hard segments, significantly affects their mechanical properties and overall performance. Research suggests that carefully controlling the microstructure and phase separation can improve the mechanical and thermal properties of polyurethanes. The goal of this review is to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date view of recent research and advancements in thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers, as well as to examine the challenges and opportunities associated with using these materials across various industries. Moreover, the application of the microphase separated in polyurethane shape memory, hydrogen-bonding‑based self-assembly technology in polyurethane-based blends, and Conductive nanocomposites based on polyurethanes are also discussed in detail.
Keywords
Thermoplastic polyurethane
microphase separation
microstructure
block copolymer
Mechanical and thermal properties
Subjects