Although the second section-regarding the composition of thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV)-notes that approximately 99 different types of TPVs can theoretically be produced, in reality, only a limited number have been successfully commercialized. The market is predominantly dominated by two specific categories of TPVs:
1. Polyolefin-based Thermoplastic Dynamic Vulcanizates (PP/EPDM-based)
These represent the most advanced class of polyolefin-based thermoplastic elastomers, synthesized using dynamic full-vulcanization technology. Compared to conventional polyolefin-based thermoplastic elastomers, they exhibit significantly lower extractable rubber content at room temperature-typically less than 3%. In terms of microphase morphology, conventional polyolefin elastomers often display varying structural arrangements depending on the relative proportions of the polyolefin and rubber components. In contrast, the microphase morphology of thermoplastic vulcanizates is characterized by a highly cross-linked rubber phase that, during the melt-blending process, is sheared into fine particles and dispersed within the polyolefin matrix to form a dispersed phase; this morphology remains consistent regardless of the rubber phase content. The micro-regions of the rubber and plastic phases exist in a state of separation while simultaneously maintaining specific forms of interconnection. These characteristics endow the material with numerous superior properties, allowing it to closely approximate the performance of thermoset elastomers in many respects-while retaining the processability of thermoplastics-thereby establishing it as a formidable competitor to traditional thermoset elastomers.
2. Oil-Resistant Thermoplastic Dynamic Vulcanizates (PP/NBR-based)
Due to the presence of Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) within this system, it exhibits superior oil resistance compared to the PP/EPDM-based TPV system. However, because resolving the compatibility issues between PP and NBR presents significant technical challenges, only a select few enterprises possess the capability to produce this material on a commercial scale.
For over two decades, Dawn Group has engaged in a strategic industry-academia partnership with the Beijing University of Chemical Technology. By leveraging their respective strengths, the two entities have successfully pioneered a new collaborative pathway integrating "production, academia, research, and application." This collaborative framework has facilitated the successive commercialization and implementation of various technological innovations, including high-performance thermoplastic elastomers (TPV), hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR), and third-generation tire gas barrier materials (DVA).