Thermoplastic elastomer

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ADM-000383",
  "term": "Thermoplastic elastomer",
  "field": "Additive manufacturing and 3D printing",
  "definition": "A family of polymer materials combining the flexible, rubber-like qualities of elastomers with the processing ease of thermoplastics. When heated above its melting point, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) becomes a liquid that can be molded or extruded, and it returns to a solid, elastic state upon cooling. This reversible behavior contrasts with thermoset rubbers, which undergo an irreversible chemical change when cured and cannot be remelted.",
  "abbreviation": "TPE",
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/additive-manufacturing/thermoplastic-elastomer/"
}