🧩 TPE-E+BIO – Bio-based Copolyether-ester
(High-performance bio-thermoplastic elastomer derived from polyester and polyether copolymers with 20–60% renewable bio-content. A sustainable alternative to conventional TPE-E, maintaining elasticity, mechanical strength, and weldability.)
🔹 What is TPE-E+BIO
TPE-E+BIO is a bio-modified copolyether-ester where polyol/polyether chains are partially derived from plant resources like castor oil, glucose, or sorbitol. At ReplastMD, we treat this as a premium high-stress material. It delivers identical performance to standard TPE-E in terms of fuel and oil resistance but with a significantly lower ecological footprint.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Rigid Phase: Polyester (PBT / bio-PBT).
- Flex Phase: Bio-polyether (derived from castor oil or glucose).
- Density: 1.10 – 1.25 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: 180 – 220 °C.
- Continuous Operating Temp: –40 °C to +140 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Excellent (oils, fuels, solvents).
🚗 Where TPE-E+BIO is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Bio Flexible Hoses | Fuel, oil, and air lines | Superior chemical and thermal resistance |
| Bellows / Boots | Suspension, brakes, joints | Wear resistance and high elasticity |
| Tech Gaskets | Covers, sensors, pumps | Long-term stability and elasticity |
| Cables / Connectors | Flexible bio-insulation | Durability and excellent insulation |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | 240 – 260 °C | Elastic, clean weld; smoke-free |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 230 – 250 °C | Uniform bonding, bubble-free |
| Manual Extrusion | 240 – 260 °C | Use TPE-E or TPE-E-BIO rods |
| Ultrasonic | — | Possible for thin-walled parts |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: TPE-E+BIO, TPE-E, Hytrel, Arnitel, Bio-TPU.
- ⚠️ Partial: TPE-A, TPE-U, TPE-BIO.
- ❌ Incompatible: PP, PE, ABS, PVC, POM, PA (different melting points).
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: Use hot air at 250 °C with TPE-E or Hytrel Bio rods. Ensure uniform pressure and slow cooling—biopolymers have a narrower melting window and can be sensitive to overheating.
🧠 How to Identify TPE-E+BIO
- Firm and elastic texture, similar to standard TPE-E; smooth surface with a natural satin gloss.
- Faint vegetable scent (wax/castor oil) when heated.
- ReplastMD practical test: If the material is elastic yet firm, has a slight organic scent, and welds cleanly at 250 °C, it’s TPE-E+BIO.
- Markings: >TPE-E BIO<, >ARNITEL ECO<, >HYTREL RS<.
🛠️ TPE-E+BIO Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional welding for TPE-E+BIO / Arnitel® Eco components. We utilize industrial Leister tools for precise control, ensuring an airtight and resilient finish — plastic as good as new.