Kraiburg TPE sets sustainability and ergonomics in motion for robotics applications

The broader use of robotics across industries, from consumer electronics to smart homes and automotive, is leading manufacturers to tap advanced materials such as thermoplastic elastomers for robotic applications, combining durability, design flexibility, and sustainability in the burgeoning industrial robotics sector.

THERMOLAST R TPE for sustainable robotic applications 

Kraiburg TPE, a global manufacturer of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) and customised material solutions for various industries, brings the THERMOLAST® R series TPE for robotics applications, to the Asia Pacific market.

The sustainable TPE material series is suited for typical robotic and electronics-related applications, including functional and design elements, handles and grips for consumer products, thumb wheels, push buttons, switches, game controllers, remote controls, earphones, wearable devices and household robotic appliances.

Bespoke compounds transforming sustainability - The Thermolast R series robotic applications materials are GRS-certified TPEs containing 34–50% post-industrial recycled (PIR) materials, depending on hardness, enabling manufacturers to stay consistent with their sustainability targets without compromising product quality.

Soft, smooth surface for enhanced tactile performance-Thermolast R recycled TPE compounds deliver a smooth-touch, non-sticky surface in robotic parts, improving user interaction and overall tactile experience. The robotics component materials also offer reliable mechanical strength to ensure long-term performance in demanding electronic and robotic environments.

Colourability for versatile robotics design-Thermolast R series TPEs are available in black and natural colours, with optional pre-colouration, providing design flexibility for robotics and consumer electronics components.

Reliable adhesion for efficient manufacturing - Thermolast R compounds feature excellent adhesion to common engineering plastics such as ABS, PC, and PC/ABS, enabling manufacturers to create overmoulded components with soft-touch elements directly on rigid structures. This reduces assembly steps and improves product reliability. Thermolast R can be processed via injection moulding, benefiting manufacturers with more efficient production and consistent part quality for large-scale operations.

Advanced TPE materials for in-car robot assistant 

Driver-assist technology is the in-thing in the automotive market. Advanced interactive vehicle systems with robot assistants improve user experience, safety, and driving efficiency. These systems integrate physical controls, digital interfaces, and functional design elements, relying on materials such as TPEs for durability, comfort, and consistent performance.

Kraiburg TPEproduces automotive-grade soft touch TPE compounds that combine high-performance mechanics with smooth-surface ergonomics, offering a TPE solution for in-car robot assistants as well as functional and design components enhanced with non-sticky TPE quality.

Kraiburg TPE materials are ideal for in-car robotic assistant components such as thumb wheels, push buttons, switches, seals, handles, and other functional or design elements. Their durability, adhesion, soft-touch feel, and versatile colouring options ensure user-friendly, high-quality automotive interiors with consistent production results.

Reliable adhesion and efficient processing - Kraiburg TPE materials exhibit excellent adhesion to PC, ABS, PC/ABS, ASA, and SAN, streamlining insert moulding and overmoulding processes while ensuring strong, reliable bonds. As an automotive interior TPE, these materials allow designers to create compact, integrated components with fewer manufacturing steps and simpler assembly, while improving part reliability and maintaining consistent quality in high-volume production. In addition, their sealing capability against dust and water supports the protection of sensitive components, enhancing durability and long-term performance in demanding in-car environments.

Soft-touch comfort for flawless interaction - Kraiburg TPE materials deliver a soft, non-sticky surface that enhances the tactile experience of thumb wheels, push buttons, and switches, while elevating ergonomic handling and reinforcing a sense of premium quality even under frequent or intensive use. The material also provides anti-rattle and damping functionality, helping to reduce noise and vibration for a quieter, more refined in-cabin experience.

Low odour, versatile colourability - KRAIBURG TPE compounds render controlled emissions and low odour, making them a fit TPE material for car interior applications. Their full colourability ensures seamless integration across functional zones, design accents, and branding elements, enhancing overall sophistication and visual harmony in-cabin in automotive interiors.

Sustainability from the get-go

At Kraiburg TPE, sustainability drives our innovation. Our portfolio includes bio-based TPEs and compounds with post-consumer (PCR) and post-industrial (PIR) recycled content. Selected TPEs are certified under GRS and ISCC PLUS. We also provide Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) data upon request to support sustainability decisions.

We proudly earned the EcoVadis Gold Medal in 2025 and are committed to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), aligning our goals with global climate action.

From reducing emissions to increasing circularity, our sustainable TPEs deliver reliable performance and are available worldwide to support your applications while advancing your sustainability goals.

Discover More with TPE. Whether it’s robotic dog applications or smart electronics, Kraiburg TPE delivers safe, durable, and user-friendly solutions for every day. (Press Release)

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