TEFABLOC™ T4

Definition

TEFABLOC™ T4 is a sub‑series of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) compounds within the TEFABLOC™ brand from Mitsubishi Chemical Group (NIPPON GOHSEI). T4 grades are typically based on styrenic block copolymers (SEBS/SBS) or polyolefinic systems and are engineered for soft‑touch, flexible parts, sealing, and overmolding applications. The series includes specialty variants such as adhesion‑modified, UV/ozone‑resistant, low‑odor/low‑fogging, and flame‑retardant grades for use in automotive, electrical/electronic, consumer, and industrial components.

Key properties or functions

  • Rubber‑like elasticity with selectable hardness (commonly around Shore A 20–90, depending on grade).
  • Good elastic recovery and low compression set for seals, gaskets, boots, and vibration‑damping elements.
  • Designed for 2K/insert overmolding; strong adhesion to polypropylene (PP) and, in selected “adhesive” grades, to engineering plastics (e.g., PA, PC, ABS).
  • Chemical resistance to many automotive fluids; weathering and UV stability available in outdoor‑capable grades.
  • Thermal performance suitable for interior and selected under‑hood locations; higher heat‑resistant variants are available.
  • Flame‑retardant options that help meet transportation/electrical fire‑safety requirements while maintaining flexibility (ratings are grade‑ and thickness‑specific).
  • Thermoplastic processability and recyclability; consistent surface finish, colorability, and options for low VOC/odor.

Processing

  • Processes on standard thermoplastic equipment: injection molding, extrusion, and blow molding.
  • Supports multi‑shot (2K) overmolding onto compatible substrates.
  • General design guidance: uniform wall thickness, adequate venting, generous radii, and draft for demolding; prepare/texture substrates as recommended for optimal adhesion.
  • Regrind/recycle use is typically possible; observe grade‑specific limits and any drying recommendations from the supplier.

Relevance

  • Enables lightweighting and part consolidation by combining soft‑touch, sealing, and damping functions in one overmolded assembly.
  • Enhances cabin haptics and NVH performance in EVs and conventional vehicles; provides protection and flexibility for cable management and connector interfaces.
  • Thermoplastic recyclability offers manufacturing scrap recovery and end‑of‑life advantages versus thermoset rubber alternatives.
  • Flame‑retardant grades support safety compliance for components near electrical systems and high‑voltage architectures.

Typical applications

  • Interior: grips and knobs, instrument‑panel overmolds, HVAC seals and flaps, cup‑holder mats, anti‑slip inserts, NVH dampers, dust covers.
  • Exterior/body: mirror and lamp boots, weatherseal elements, bumper accents, wheel‑arch trims, glazing and lamp gaskets (with UV‑stable grades).
  • Electrical/electronic: wire and harness grommets, strain reliefs, cable jackets and boots, connector overmolds; FR grades for parts adjacent to electrical systems.
  • Powertrain/under‑hood: select heat/chemical‑resistant grades for bellows, caps, hose covers, and vibration isolators.

Example/synonyms or related terms

  • Related TEFABLOC™ families: other TEFABLOC™ TPS/TPO series tailored for different adhesion, hardness, or heat/FR requirements.
  • Comparable material classes: TPS (SEBS‑based TPE), TPO, TPV (vulcanized EPDM/PP), TPU, and COPE/TPE‑E.
  • Generic descriptors (context‑dependent): SEBS‑based TPE; soft‑touch overmolding elastomer; flame‑retardant TPE (for FR grades).

Notes

TEFABLOC™ is a registered trademark of Mitsubishi Chemical Group. T4 denotes a specific sub‑series within the TEFABLOC™ portfolio. Exact mechanical, thermal, chemical, electrical, and fire‑safety performance—and regulatory compliance such as RoHS/REACH, automotive OEM approvals, and interior emissions—are grade‑ and thickness‑dependent; always consult the supplier’s technical data sheet for the targeted grade.

Related Products