TPE and silicone rubber are different material systems. Selection should compare specific grades, processing methods and service requirements rather than assume that one category is better.
Structure and hardness
The polymer backbone of silicone rubber contains silicon–oxygen (Si–O) bonds; SiO₂ is not its polymer backbone formula. TPE includes several polymer systems and cannot be reduced to a single backbone structure.
Shore hardness scales run from 0 to 100, with different methods such as A and D. Product hardness should identify both the measured value and the applicable scale.
Processing and selection
Thermoplastic processing and the crosslinking of silicone rubber have different requirements. Temperature limits, overmolding adhesion, reprocessing and cost should be assessed for the formulation, process and service conditions.