A growing trend in the industry has aimed to reduce microbial populations on high-touch surfaces via the use of antimicrobials to protect material aesthetics and durability or to prevent the spread of pathogenic microorganisms. The global antimicrobial plastics market is forecasted to grow signifi- cantly from 36.9 billion to 59.8 billion USD during 2020– 2025, a compound annual growth rate of 10.1%.[3] Similar to the specialty biocides market, the outbreak of COVID- 19 has undoubtedly increased consumer cognizance of high-touch plastic surfaces (e.g., phone cases, point-of- purchase equipment, shopping carts, etc.).

Soft TPEs require longer cooling times to allow them to gain the full physical properties necessary to be ejected from the mold without distortion. As the industry leader in soft tactile grip thermoplastic elastomers, GLS can suggest the right hardness to meet your most demanding applications.

Dynaflex™ G2706 – Soft translucent grade for PP overmolding Dynalloy™ OBC 8000-T05 – Ultra soft and translucent

GLS soft TPEs can be overmolded onto rigid plastic, metal, or other substrates using a variety of techniques, including: The adhesion of GLS soft overmolding TPEs to a substrate may be affected by:

Very soft materials, such as gels and micro-cellular foam and sponge, are rated on the “Shore OO”. Many rubbers, soft plastics, urethanes and TPE’s are rated on the “Shore A” scale.

Soft target of 60 - 90 days depending on complexity and risk.

These investments have built resiliency in our portfolio and are helping to overcome the soft demand conditions in certain regions and end markets," Mr.

heat or water resistant, hard or soft, color).

Patterson added, “We are an asset-light, high-touch business that generates very high free cash flow conversion.

Our local touch and customer engagement, combined with our global presence, allows us to serve customers with agility.