🧩 TPE+BIO – Bio-based Thermoplastic Elastomer
(Ecological thermoplastic material obtained from synthetic elastomers modified with vegetable compounds such as natural oils or bio-polyesters. A sustainable alternative to conventional TPE with excellent elastic properties and weldability.)
🔹 What is TPE+BIO
TPE+BIO belongs to the bioplastic elastomer category, where 20–80% of the composition comes from renewable plant sources. At ReplastMD, we recognize this as a key material for the future of sustainable automotive design. It performs similarly to standard TPE while offering a controlled carbon footprint and full recyclability.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Flex Base: Bio-based TPU, TPE-E, or TPE-O.
- Vegetable Content: Epoxidized oils (soy, castor, sunflower), thermoplastic starch.
- Density: 0.95 – 1.10 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: 180 – 210 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Good (oils, detergents, water).
- CO₂ Reduction: 30–60% lower emissions compared to classic TPE.
🚗 Where TPE+BIO is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Eco-gaskets | Doors, trunk, covers | Durability with a low environmental impact |
| Soft-touch Interior | Handles, buttons, trim | Premium, smooth, natural feel |
| Flexible Protectors | Bellows, mudflaps | Good weldability and UV stability |
| Decorative Parts | Biopolymer inserts | Compatible with PP overmolding |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | 230 – 250 °C | Clean weld, smoke-free, natural flow |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 220 – 240 °C | Smooth, elastic bonding |
| Manual Extrusion | 230 – 250 °C | Use TPE-BIO or TPE-O rods |
| Ultrasonic | — | Possible for thin sections |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: TPE+BIO, TPE-O, TPE-V, PP.
- ⚠️ Partial: Bio-based TPU or TPE-E.
- ❌ Incompatible: PA, PC, POM, PVC (different polarities).
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: For TPE+BIO welding, use hot air at 240 °C with a constant flow and slow cooling. Avoid overheating, as bio-components may caramelize and change color.
🧠 How to Identify TPE+BIO
- Rubbery, soft texture with a slight satin finish.
- Faint vegetable odor (like oil or wax) when heated.
- Natural colors: cream-white, green, or matte black.
- ReplastMD practical test: If the part has a subtle organic scent and welds beautifully at 240 °C without sour fumes, it is TPE+BIO.
- Markings: >TPE-BIO<, >BIO-TPE<, >APINAT BIO<.
🛠️ TPE+BIO Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional welding for bio-based elastomers using industrial-grade Leister tools. We ensure a high-quality repair that is odorless, smoke-free, and as strong as the original.