Pearlthane D11T85UV and D11T93 thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) from Merquinsa NA Inc., Sparta, N.J., reportedly have met or exceeded North American Tier 1 automotive specs for gear-shift knobs and spring insulators. The Pearlthane D11T85UV TPU line, based on a proprietary polycaprolactone technology, is reportedly easily overmolded in typical two-shot injection-molding applications. They also sport good wearability and scratch resistance.
The special UV resistance and colorability of this 85A Shore A TPU makes it suitable for demanding two-shot molding automotive-interior applications. It adheres well to a wide range of polar substrates such as ABS and PC. Currently, this TPE can be overmolded onto a variety of rigid substrates to provide a "leatherlike" feel, as well as resist wear and abrasion. The material ships in clear pellet form for coloring.
Pearlthane D11T93 resists oil, grease, and abrasion. Its high-temperature and hydrolysis performance versus standard polyester TPUs make it an option for elastomeric underhood applications. Additional grades will be available later this year.
MAKE CONTACT
Merquinsa NA Inc., (973) 362-1280, www.merquinsa.com
| Property | Test Method | D11T93 | D11T85UV |
| Shore A hardness | ASTM D-2240 | 93 | 86 |
| Tensile strength, kpsi | ASTM D-412 | 5.8 | 5.8 |
| Elongation @ break, % | ASTM D-412 | 525 | 600 |
| Modulus @100 % elongation, kpsi | ASTM D-412 | 1.23 | 0.87 |
| Modulus @300 % elongation, kpsi | ASTM D-412 2.5 | 1.45 | |
| Tear strength, lb/in. | ASTM D-624 (Die C) | 685 | 515 |
| Compression set (70 hr @ 73° F), % | ASTM D-395 | 20 | 20 |
| Compression set ( 24 hr @ 158° F), % | ASTM D-395 | 29 | 35 |
| Moisture content % | MQSA 44 | <0.05 | <0.1 |