1. What is TPU material?
Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU material) is a flexible, abrasion resistant thermoplastic. It’s being used in a number of manufacturing processes for both consumer and industrial use. In certain blends it can become very soft, but TPU material offers many benefits and features.
TPU filament is abrasion resistant, can withstand impacts and is resistant to many chemicals. Its versatile and used in many different industries. There are different versions of TPU material but in the main it can be classed as two types. Firstly known as Polyether Polyurethane and secondly Polyester Polyurethane. With both having different characteristics that can be suited to a specific need.

2. Polyester Polyurethane vs Polyether Polyurethane
Both of these urethane chemistries are excellent, strong, tough and durable elastomers with excellent physical properties. They can be formulated to work equally well in some applications but there are other applications where, after considering all the physical and environmental aspects of the application, one will be a more appropriate choice than the other.
Polyester Polyurethanes – In general, the polyester polyurethanes are known to have excellent physical properties when it comes to tear and tensile strength as well as resistance to abrasion, oil, grease, fuel and organic solvents.
Polyether Polyurethanes – In general, the polyether polyurethanes have superior dynamics properties which makes them an excellent choice in heavily loaded roller applications which subject the urethane to a repetitive compression force. The polyethers are also superior in cold or wet applications.
When comparing polyether polyurethanes to polyester polyurethanes, the following is generally true, especially if you compare them at the same durometers.
Both polyester polyurethane and polyether polyurethane can be made to any hardness from soft to hard. While both polyether and polyester polyurethanes are strong, polyester polyurethanes have a higher tensile strength and a higher cut and tear resistance than polyether polyurethanes.
Polyether Polyurethanes
-Better for higher durometer formulations
-Better dynamic properties (lower hysteresis)
-Better water resistance (resists hydrolyzation)
-Better low temperature flexibility
-Better resistance to molds and fungi.
Polyester Polyurethanes
-Better for lower durometer formulations
-Better abrasion resistance
-Better tensile strength
-Better tear resistance
-Better oil, grease and fuel resistance
-Better organic solvent resistance
-Lower cost

3. TPU Bladder Applications

Waterproof TPU fabrics bond a thermoplastic polyurethane membrane to a base textile, such as nylon or polyester fabric, to create a wide range of high-performing materials that maintain their flexibility yet are durable and waterproof.

TPU coated textiles are UV resistant, can stand up to extreme weather and environmental conditions, and resist abrasions and punctures. Combined with glued or welded seals, these fabrics have excellent air- and liquid-holding capability. This makes it ideal for bladder-type applications such as:

• inflatable watercraft and floatation devices,
• medical applications like inflatable mattresses, splints, and lifts,
• flexible storage tanks and bags for products like water, food (such as milk, wine and oils), pharmaceutical products, and all types of fossil fuels
• environmental applications such as oil booms, barriers/berms, and flood and spill protection and control.

Bladders made from TPU coated textiles are strong enough for long term storage and transportation use.