By Michael Lauzon
CORRESPONDENT
Published: August 27, 2014 10:37 am ET
Updated: August 27, 2014 10:38 am ET
Italian elastomers producer Softer Group has introduced a thermoplastic elastomer suited to extruding tubing for drinking water.
Laprene 830.556 is plasticizer-free with high transparency and flexibility, the Forti, Italy, company reports. Its smoothness and slippery surface help purge dirt and impurities that can be present in piped water. It also has antibacterial protection to inhibit growth of biofilms and bacteria.
Softer says the new product also is available in an injection molding version that could be applied in production of flexible tubes for appliances such as dishwashers and water dispensers, or in plumbing. The TPE adheres to polypropylene for overmolding uses. | 
