🧩 TPE-S+BIO – Bio-based Styrenic Elastomer (SBS / SEBS bio)
(Ecological elastomeric material obtained by combining styrenic block copolymers (SBS, SEBS) with epoxidized vegetable oils or bio-polyesters. A modern, sustainable version of classic TPE-S, used for interior components and flexible gaskets.)
🔹 What is TPE-S+BIO
TPE-S+BIO belongs to the new generation of eco-friendly styrenic TPEs, where mineral plasticizers have been replaced with natural oils (soy, castor, sunflower). At ReplastMD, we handle this material specifically for high-end interior components. It offers a neutral scent, free of petroleum aromatics, while maintaining perfect compatibility with standard SEBS and SBS polymers.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Main Phase: Styrenic copolymer (SBS or SEBS).
- Plasticizers: Epoxidized vegetable oils / bio-polyol esters.
- Density: 0.9 – 1.1 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: 190 – 230 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Good (water, detergents, alcohol).
- Environmental Impact: 30–50% CO₂ reduction compared to fossil-based TPE.
🚗 Where TPE-S+BIO is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Soft-touch Interior | Handles, buttons, covers | Soft surface, pleasant feel, odorless |
| Flexible Gaskets | Doors, headlights, trunk | Airtight, elastic, UV resistant |
| Decorative Guards | Protectors, trim, consoles | Scratch and light resistance |
| Overmolding | TPE inserts on PP panels | Excellent PP/TPE-S compatibility |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | 230 – 250 °C | Clean, odorless, elastic weld |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 220 – 240 °C | Uniform bonding, bubble-free |
| Manual Extrusion | 230 – 250 °C | Use TPE-S / TPE-BIO compatible rods |
| Ultrasonic | — | Possible for thin-walled sections |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: TPE-S+BIO, TPE-S, SEBS, SBS, TPE-BIO.
- ⚠️ Partial: PP, TPO, TPE-O (good adhesion).
- ❌ Incompatible: PA, PC, POM, PVC, PET (different polarities).
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: TPE-S+BIO welding is best performed at 240 °C with gentle pressure. Ensure a clean airflow to prevent carbonization, as bio-oils may slightly discolor the melt zone if overheated.
🧠 How to Identify TPE-S+BIO
- Rubbery, soft texture, identical to classic TPE-S.
- Discreet vegetable scent (oil/wax) when heated.
- ReplastMD practical test: If it’s soft, has a subtle organic smell, and welds perfectly at 240 °C with TPE-S, it is TPE-S+BIO.
- Common markings: >TPE-S BIO<, >SEBS BIO<, >THERMOLAST BIO S<.
🛠️ TPE-S+BIO Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional welding for bio-based styrenic elastomers. We restore soft and elastic zones to their original texture using industrial Leister equipment.