🧩 PP-EPDM-TVX15 – Polypropylene + EPDM + Modified Mineral
(Elastic composite olefinic material composed of Polypropylene (PP), EPDM rubber, and 15% modified mineral filler (TVX))
🔹 What is PP-EPDM-TVX15
PP-EPDM-TVX15 is an intermediate version of PP-EPDM compounds with modified mineral fillers (“X” indicates the special treatment of the mineral, usually silanized talc or calcite, to increase compatibility with the olefinic phase).
Compared to TVX20, this type has lower density and is more elastic, making it preferred for parts that must absorb impact without permanent deformation. It is widely used in the automotive industry for bumpers, exterior casings, and side protections (BMW, Renault, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz), providing a balance between flexibility and rigidity with reduced weight and superior matte finish.
🔧 Composition
| Component | Typical Proportion | Role |
| PP (Polypropylene) | 55–65 % | Rigid structural matrix |
| EPDM rubber | 20–25 % | Elasticity, vibration damping |
| Mod. Mineral (TVX15) | 15 % | Stiffening, improved adhesion |
| Additives | < 5 % | Protection and processability |
🚗 Automotive Applications
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Bumpers and Corners | Diffusers, sill extensions, bumper corners | Semi-flexible, UV resistant |
| Lower Protections | Engine covers, side panels | Matte texture, durable |
| Sensor Covers | Mirror covers, sensor mounts | Thermally stable, partially paintable |
| BMW / Renault / VAG | TVX15 / T15 codes | Standard material for exterior injected parts |
🔩 Welding Compatibility
| Mating Material | Compatibility | Observations |
| PP-EPDM, TPO, TEO, PP-TD15 | ✅ Excellent | Excellent welding – compatible family |
| Plain PP, TV20, TPO-TD20 | ⚠️ Fair | Partially weldable |
| TPE-O, TPE-V | ⚠️ Low | Possible, but low adhesion |
| PA, PC, PVC, ABS, PET | ❌ Incompatible | Thermally and chemically incompatible |
🏭 Manufacturers and Trade Names
- LyondellBasell: Hostacom® PP-EPDM-TVX15 / TVX20
- Borealis AG: Daplen® TVX15 / TPO Premium
- SABIC: PP-EPDM Compounds TVX Series
- Röchling Automotive: RoeBlend® PP-EPDM-TVX15
🧠 How to Identify
- Markings: >PP-EPDM-TVX15<, >PP-EPDM-T15<, >TPO-TVX15<
- Texture: Matte, fine, slightly rubberized, dense surface
- Color: Grey / technical black
- Density: ~1.02 g/cm³ (slightly below TVX20)
- Flame Test: Clean flame, olefinic smell, white-grey ash (minerals)
- Cold-flexible, medium rigidity, slow return to shape
🛠️ PP-EPDM-TVX15 Welding at ReplastMD
| Method | Temperature | Observations |
| Hot Air | 230 – 250 °C | Recommended – PP-EPDM / TPO rod |
| Heat plate (Mirror) | 220 – 240 °C | Uniform bonding, stable |
| Extrusion | 230 – 250 °C | Thick or stressed zones |
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: use PP-EPDM or TPO welding rods, clean with isopropyl alcohol, ensure constant air flow and controlled pressure.