In the global laminated glass and polymer film market, TPU and EVA are two core materials with strong demand. For manufacturers and buyers focusing on the construction, automotive, and new energy sectors, understanding the differences between the two is key to achieving optimal material selection. This article will break down the definitions, characteristics, and practical applications of TPU and EVA to help industry professionals make informed decisions.
What is TPU?
TPU stands for thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer, a high-performance polymer material that combines the elasticity of rubber with the processability of plastics. It possesses excellent abrasion resistance, tear resistance, oil resistance, and low-temperature resistance (able to withstand environments down to -40°C). Its hardness can be flexibly adjusted, its mechanical properties are stable, it has strong adhesion to glass substrates, and it is environmentally friendly and recyclable. It can be processed into various shapes through injection molding, extrusion, and other processes.
What is EVA?
EVA, or ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, is a cost-effective thermoplastic resin. It is soft, tough, impact-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and has high light transmittance. It is also lightweight, sound-insulating, heat-insulating, and shock-resistant, exhibiting excellent adhesion to glass. Furthermore, its low processing cost makes it a common choice in general industrial applications.
The core differences between TPU and EVA
TPU is an elastomer material with superior mechanical strength and temperature stability, making it suitable for harsh environments, but it is relatively expensive. EVA is a soft thermoplastic resin, offering high cost-effectiveness and ease of processing, but it softens easily at high temperatures and has relatively weaker abrasion resistance. In terms of environmental performance, TPU is more recyclable than most types of EVA.
Practical applications of laminated glass and other fields
Laminated glass field
EVA film is widely used in ordinary building windows and car side windows, effectively preventing glass from shattering and offering a significant cost advantage; TPU film, on the other hand, is used for high-end applications such as bulletproof glass, outdoor high weather-resistant building glass, and battery cover glass for new energy vehicles due to its outstanding durability.
Other industrial sectors
TPU is suitable for products with high strength requirements, such as sports shoe soles, hydraulic hoses, and medical hoses; EVA, after being processed by foaming, can be made into yoga mats and packaging cushioning materials, and can also be used as a photovoltaic module encapsulation film to play a role in heat insulation and sealing.
How to choose between TPU and EVA?
For basic bonding and protection needs like ordinary laminated glass, where high cost-effectiveness is the priority, EVA is the first choice. However, for harsh conditions such as outdoor exposure to sunlight, high impact, and contact with oil stains, requiring superior performance, TPU is the better option. Furthermore, many companies use TPU-EVA composite films to achieve a balance between functionality and cost.