PVC-U (Rigid PVC) vs TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): 0% composition overlap. Significantly different materials serving different application areas.
PVC-U (Rigid PVC) vs TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
PVC-U (Rigid PVC)
Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride — the second-most produced plastic globally. Hard, rigid, self-extinguishing (LOI 45%), excellent chemical resistance to acids/bases/salts, and very low cost. Key limitation: max service temp only 60°C. Developed in 1930s Germany. Used for water/sewage pipes, window profiles, electrical conduit, cladding, and chemical tanks/fittings. NOT the flexible PVC used in cables — that is PVC-P (plasticized).
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)
Thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer — bridges the gap between rubber and rigid plastics. Exceptional abrasion resistance, high elongation (300-700%), and good oil/grease resistance. Available in wide hardness range (60 Shore A to 74 Shore D). Ester-based: better oil resistance. Ether-based: better hydrolysis/microbial resistance. Major trade names: Elastollan (BASF), Desmopan/Texin (Covestro), Estane (Lubrizol). Used for seals, hoses, cable jackets, shoe soles, phone cases, wheels/rollers, and 3D printing filament.
| PVC-U (Rigid PVC) | TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | — | — |
| Category | Polymers | Polymers |
| Standard | ISO 10350 | ISO 527-1 |
Chemical composition (wt%) — Pro
| Element | PVC-U (Rigid PVC) | TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Polymer (Polyvinyl Chloride) | 95–99.9% | — | — |
| Diisocyanate (MDI/TDI) | — | 20–45% | — |
| Polyol (Polyester/Polyether) | — | 45–75% | — |
| Chain Extender (BDO/HDO) | — | 3–15% | — |
Mechanical properties — Pro
| Property | PVC-U (Rigid PVC) | TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 48–55 | 30–50 | MPa |
| Yield Strength | 48–55 | — | MPa |
| Elongation | 30–50 | 400–700 | % |
| Elastic Modulus | |||
| Density | |||
| Continuous Use Temp | |||
| hardness_shore_d | |||
| Water Absorption (24h) | |||
| hardness_shore_a |
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Sign up free — 3 comparisons/day freeCompatibility Assessment
PVC-U (Rigid PVC) and TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) have significantly different compositions (0% overlap). These materials are not interchangeable and serve different application areas.
Automated assessment based on composition analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PVC-U (Rigid PVC) the same as TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)?
PVC-U (Rigid PVC) and TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) have a 0% composition overlap. They are generally not directly interchangeable.
Can I replace PVC-U (Rigid PVC) with TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (0% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between PVC-U (Rigid PVC) and TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)?
The main differences are in the following elements: overall alloying content. PVC-U (Rigid PVC) is a Polymers grade, while TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is a Polymers grade.
Related Comparisons
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.