TPU Black

TPEs, or thermoplastic elastomers, are a combination of polymers with both thermoplastic and rubber characteristics that feature a crosslinking microstructure. Typically, TPE is soft and flexible, even bouncy. Industrially, TPEs are used to manufacture headphones, snowmobile tracks, and sex toys.

For 3D printing, TPEs should be used wherever flexibility and strength are both a concern. Some brands of soft elastomers may be very difficult to print with, because they require a lot of heat, while some brands print relatively easily at normal ABS temperatures.