🧩 PP-EPDM-T20-IM – Polypropylene + EPDM + Talc 20%
(Hybrid olefinic material composed of Polypropylene (PP), EPDM rubber, and 20% fine talc (T20))
🔹 What is PP-EPDM-T20-IM
PP-EPDM-T20-IM belongs to the family of talc-modified PP-EPDM compounds, where polypropylene provides rigidity, EPDM offers elasticity, and talc increases dimensional stability and temperature resistance.
The “IM” (Injection Molding) suffix indicates a formula optimized for injection molding, featuring high fluidity and low shrinkage — ideal for bumpers, covers, protections, and exterior body elements. The material has a soft-matte texture, is easy to process, and offers excellent mechanical adhesion in welded or bonded areas. It is present in numerous OEM automotive components, especially in European production (BMW, Renault, Peugeot, VW).
🔧 Composition
| Component | Typical Proportion | Role |
| PP (Polypropylene) | 55–60 % | Rigid structural matrix |
| EPDM rubber | 20–25 % | Flexibility and shock absorption |
| Talc (T20) | 20 % | Increases rigidity and thermal stability |
| Additives | < 5 % | Protection and technical finish |
🚗 Automotive Applications
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Bumpers and Corners | Side zones, diffusers, extensions | Semi-rigid, UV resistant |
| Wheel Arches | Mudguards, wheel housings | Elastic, shock resistant |
| Lower Protections | Under-engine panels and guards | Thermally stable, damping |
| IM / T20 marked parts | BMW, Renault, Peugeot bumpers | Common in injected exterior parts |
🔩 Welding Compatibility
| Mating Material | Compatibility | Observations |
| PP-EPDM, TPO, TEO, PP-TD20 | ✅ Excellent | Excellent welding – same family |
| Plain PP, PP-T20, MD20 | ⚠️ Fair | Possible, but with increased rigidity |
| TPE-O, TPE-V | ⚠️ Limited | Partially compatible |
| PA, PC, ABS, PET, PVC | ❌ Incompatible | Thermally and chemically incompatible |
🏭 Manufacturers and Trade Names
- LyondellBasell: Hostacom® PP-EPDM-T20-IM / Softell®
- Borealis AG: Daplen® PP-EPDM-T20-IM
- SABIC: PP-EPDM Compounds T20 / IM Series
- Röchling Automotive: RoeBlend® PP-EPDM-T20
🧠 How to Identify
- Markings: >PP-EPDM-T20<, >PP-EPDM-T20-IM<, >PP-EPDM-I<
- Texture: Matte, uniform, slightly rubberized
- Density: ~1.03 g/cm³, intermediate between T15 and T30
- Flame Test: Clean flame, no dense smoke, olefinic smell, grey-white ash (talc)
- Parts bend without cracking and slowly return to shape
🛠️ PP-EPDM-T20-IM Welding at ReplastMD
| Method | Temperature | Observations |
| Hot Air | 230 – 250 °C | Recommended – PP-EPDM / TPO rod |
| Heat plate (Mirror) | 220 – 240 °C | Clean, stable bonding |
| Extrusion | 230 – 250 °C | For thicker or stressed zones |
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: use PP-EPDM or TPO welding rods, clean with isopropyl alcohol, ensure controlled air flow and constant pressure.