A Study on the Properties of Core-Shell Powder-Modified Thermoplastic Polyurethane Elastomers

Thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPUs) exhibit poor high-temperature resistance; their mechanical properties deteriorate rapidly in high-temperature environments, which limits their application in high-temperature operating conditions. Consequently, there is a need to further improve their thermal-oxidative ageing resistance. TPU/silicone core-shell powder blends were prepared using a physical melt blending method, with silicone core-shell powder employed as a functional modifier. Utilizing modern analytical instruments, the interfacial interactions between the TPU matrix and the silicone core-shell powder were systematically investigated. The results indicate that, following 48 hours of thermal-oxidative ageing at 100°C, the tensile strength retention of the TPU/silicone core-shell powder blend was significantly higher than that of pure TPU, whilst dynamic mechanical properties and thermal stability were also improved. This indicates that, during thermal-oxidative ageing, the silicone core-shell powder provides effective protection for the thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer. Furthermore, the mechanism of interfacial interaction between TPU and the silicone core-shell powder was investigated. This study represents a meaningful exploration towards the development of TPU materials with excellent resistance to thermal-oxidative ageing.