🧩 TPU+TPS – Thermoplastic Polyurethane + Thermoplastic Starch
(Bio-thermoplastic hybrid material consisting of TPU and thermoplastic starch (TPS). It combines the durability and elasticity of TPU with the ecological and biodegradable character of starch, resulting in a sustainable and fully weldable material.)
🔹 What is TPU+TPS
TPU+TPS is a mechanical blend where the TPU provides mechanical strength and elasticity, while the TPS (thermally modified starch) reduces density and improves sustainability. At ReplastMD, we handle this material for modern eco-friendly components. It maintains the elastic properties of TPU but offers a lower weight and a reduced ecological footprint, with a naturally matte finish.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Polymer Base: TPU + Thermoplastic Starch (TPS).
- Typical Ratio: 60–70% TPU / 30–40% TPS.
- Density: 1.05 – 1.18 g/cm³ (lightweight).
- Operating Range: –30 °C to +100 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Good (water, detergents, vegetable oils).
🚗 Where TPU+TPS is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| ECO Flexible Hoses | Water, air, eco-fluids | Resists pressure and bio-oils |
| Gaskets & Bellows | Protectors, sleeves, caps | Elastic and lightweight |
| ECO Design Elements | Inserts, covers, mounts | Natural matte finish, colorable |
| Interior Accessories | Cables, wire guards, plugs | Neutral scent, partially biodegradable |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Compatibility | Observations |
| Hot Air | ✅ Excellent | 230 – 250 °C; clean, fluid melt |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | ✅ Very Good | 230 – 245 °C; smooth, bubble-free bond |
| Manual Extrusion | ✅ Recommended | 240 – 255 °C; TPU or TPU+TPS rod |
| Ultrasonic | ⚠️ Possible | TPS tends to absorb vibrations |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: TPU, TPU+BIO, TPU+TPS, Pearlthane, Desmopan, Elastollan – Excellent.
- ✅ Good: PLA, PBS, BioFlex, Bioplast (bio-based materials).
- ❌ Incompatible: PP, PE, PTFE, POM, PVC – different melting points, no adhesion.
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: TPU+TPS welds very well with hot air at ≈ 245 °C. Because TPS absorbs moisture, a light drying (50 °C for 1 hour) before welding is recommended for perfect, bubble-free results.
🧠 How to Identify TPU+TPS
- Semi-matte appearance, soft and warm to the touch.
- Color: Cream, translucent, or natural matte.
- ReplastMD practical test: Elastic and lightweight; emits a sweet scent (like starch or bioplastic) when heated.
- Common markings: >TPU<, >BIO TPU<, >TPS<, >HYBRID TPU/TPS<.
🛠️ TPU+TPS Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional welding for eco-friendly TPU+TPS hoses and flexible protectors. We guarantee a clear, smooth, and uniform joint — plastic as good as new and ecologically safe.