The main performance characteristics of thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) are hardness and colour.
Hardness of TPE is measured on the Shore 00, Shore A, and Shore D scales. These scales overlap, ranging from the softest materials (Shore 00) to the hardest (Shore D).
Colour of TPE can be produced in virtually any shade, for example, according to the RAL colour scale. TPE intended for colouring is supplied in a natural form — from transparent to translucent white. It can be easily coloured during processing using masterbatch granules (colour concentrates) at an average dosage of 1–3%.
Liquid dyes may also be used for colouring TPE. If colouring quality is insufficient — for instance, if streaks or uneven tones appear — it is possible to purchase pre-coloured grades, which are factory-coloured by the manufacturer to ensure consistent appearance.