VESTAMID® E—Polyamide 12 elastomers

The PA 12 elastomers belong to the class of materials known as thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs). These are block copolymers consisting of PA 12 segments and polyether segments (polyether block amides or PEBAs). Products rich in PA 12 have the basic properties of that polymer. With increasing polyether content the elastomer character becomes more marked: The polymers are more flexible and have higher cold impact strength. Thanks to their outstanding properties they are indispensable in a large number of applications.

Compared with competitive thermoplastic elastomers, VESTAMID^® E compounds are distinguished particularly by the following properties:

• low density
• good resistance to chemicals and solvents
• ease of processing, coloring, and overmolding
• very easily decorated by heat transfer printing
• excellent low-temperature impact strength
• hardness and flexibility can be varied over wide ranges
• high elasticity and good resilience
• only slight temperature dependence of mechanical properties
• free from volatile or leaching plasticizers

VESTAMID^® E compounds are suitable for precision injection moldings, such as noiseless gears and functional elements of sports shoes, as well as for high-performance extrusion components like paint spray hoses, vacuum brake booster lines, and high-quality decorative films. We can provide you with unstabilized or heat- and light-stabilized material, according to your requirements.

Evonik has developed a transparent VESTAMID^® polyamide elastomer for the manufacture of high-quality high-tech sports shoe soles.

Further information is also available directly from our experts for your market segment.