Will TPU webbing get yellow?

Coated webbing is widely used in lots of fields such as dog collars, fashion bags and outdoor products. However, like many plastic materials, TPU coated webbing can experience yellowing over time, largely influenced by the quality of the materials used.

Yellowing in TPU coated webbing is primarily attributed to the inherent properties of plastic materials, including TPU, PVC, silicone, PE, etc. Over time, exposure to environmental factors such as UV radiation, heat, and pollutants can lead to chemical changes within the TPU material, causing it to develop a yellowish tint. Additionally, the quality of the TPU raw materials plays a significant role in determining the susceptibility to yellowing. Lower-grade TPUs tend to exhibit yellowing more rapidly than higher-quality variants.

TPU raw materials sourced from different manufacturers vary in their resistance to yellowing. For instance, conventional TPU materials produced in Taiwan typically have lower resistance to yellowing, with a yellowing grade ranging from 2 to 3. This means that even under indoor conditions, these materials may start to show signs of yellowing within a few months of use. In contrast, TPU materials sourced from Germany or Japan boast higher yellowing resistance, with grades ranging from 4 to 5. These materials can maintain their color integrity for approximately one year under indoor conditions. However, when exposed to outdoor environments, the yellowing process accelerates significantly.

To mitigate or prevent yellowing in TPU coated webbing, several strategies can be employed:

1. Color Selection: Opting for darker colors such as black or brown can effectively conceal any yellowing that may occur over time. Even if the TPU coated webbing develops a yellowish hue, it may not be noticeable to the naked eye.

2. UV-Resistant TPU: For applications requiring lighter-colored TPU coated webbing, utilizing UV-resistant TPU raw materials during production is recommended. These specialized materials offer enhanced protection against UV radiation, significantly reducing the risk of yellowing.

By understanding the factors contributing to yellowing in TPU coated webbing and implementing preventive measures such as selecting high-quality raw materials and UV-resistant formulations, manufacturers and consumers can prolong the lifespan and aesthetic appeal of TPU coated webbing in various applications.