PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) vs TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): 0% composition overlap. Significantly different materials serving different application areas.
PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) vs TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
PVC-P (Plasticized PVC)
Flexible (plasticized) PVC — PVC compounded with 20–50% plasticizer (typically DEHP, DINP or DOTP) to achieve rubber-like flexibility. Very different properties from rigid PVC-U. Excellent electrical insulation, chemical resistance, flame retardancy (self-extinguishing) and weatherability. Trade names: Vestolit P (Orbia), Geon (Polyone). Used for cable insulation and sheathing, medical tubing, automotive interior trim, inflatable products, floor coverings, hoses and sealing profiles. Continuous use -30°C to +70°C.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)
Thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer — bridges the gap between rubber and rigid plastics. Exceptional abrasion resistance, high elongation (300-700%), and good oil/grease resistance. Available in wide hardness range (60 Shore A to 74 Shore D). Ester-based: better oil resistance. Ether-based: better hydrolysis/microbial resistance. Major trade names: Elastollan (BASF), Desmopan/Texin (Covestro), Estane (Lubrizol). Used for seals, hoses, cable jackets, shoe soles, phone cases, wheels/rollers, and 3D printing filament.
| PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) | TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | — | — |
| Category | Polymers | Polymers |
| Standard | ISO 2898 | ISO 527-1 |
Mechanical properties — Pro
| Property | PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) | TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 10–25 | — | MPa |
| Elongation at Break | 200–400 | — | % |
| Shore Hardness A | 55–90 | — | Shore A |
| Density | |||
| Continuous Use Temp | |||
| Oxygen Index (LOI) | |||
| Water Absorption (24h) | |||
| Tensile Strength | |||
| Elongation | |||
| hardness_shore_a | |||
| Density | |||
| Elastic Modulus |
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PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) and TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) have significantly different compositions (0% overlap). These materials are not interchangeable and serve different application areas.
Automated assessment based on composition analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) the same as TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)?
PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) and TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) have a 0% composition overlap. They are generally not directly interchangeable.
Can I replace PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) with TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (0% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) and TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)?
The main differences are in the following elements: overall alloying content. PVC-P (Plasticized PVC) is a Polymers grade, while TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is a Polymers grade.
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.