Santoprene TPV corner molding for EPDM weatherseal: New approach for optimum adhesion performance

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Santoprene TPV corner molding for EPDM weatherseal: New approach for optimum adhesion performance

Jourdain, E.P. / Kenens, L.

There is a trend in the automotive weather seal market for converting from thermoset EPDM to TPV parts (Thermoplastic Elastomer Vulcanizate) that are overmolded onto EPDM profiles. The incentive is the lowest total part cost because TPV processing simplifies such complex operations. Therefore reduced cycle time and fewer injection presses per extrusion line can be expected. Quality also improves since the cold molding does not damage the surface treatment applied on the profile. The adhesion performance on cured EPDM has historically limited this conversion to mostly static parts. In this study, we have shown that a TPV grade, specially developed to offer an improved bonding to EPDM compounds, can expand the TPV overmolding applications to more dynamic profiles. This improved adhesion is not only observed at room temperature but also at higher temperatures, which is critical in the automotive environment and after aging. This higher bonding energy is related to higher tensile strength, but also higher elongation at break, which reduces the risk of breakage when handling the weather seal after molding.