Typically, based on their preparation methods, thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are broadly classified into two major categories: chemically synthesized TPEs and rubber-plastic blend TPEs. The former exists as distinct polymeric entities and is further subdivided into main-chain copolymerization, graft copolymerization, and ionic polymerization types. The latter primarily consists of blends of rubber and resin; this category includes dynamically vulcanized elastomers (TPE-TPV)-characterized by cross-linked vulcanization-and interpenetrating polymer networks (TPE-IPN).
Currently, TPEs-centered around TPS and TPO-have experienced rapid global growth, with the combined production and consumption volume of these two types now accounting for approximately 80% of the total TPE market. Diene-based TPEs and vinyl chloride-based TPEs have also emerged as significant varieties within the general-purpose TPE sector. Other types-such as TPU, TPEE, TPAE, and TPF-have shifted their focus toward engineering-oriented applications.