(most often PP in the case of Santoprene TPV grades). Fully cross-linked or vulcanized means 98% or above, and because the morphology is "locked-in," it provides stable physical properties. Properties Designed for specific engineered applications, Santoprene TPV grades range from the hardness of 35 Shore A up to 50 Shore D. Santoprene TPV grades offer the following: sealing performance: long-term aging durability combined with dimensional stability and physical properties over the life of the part; aesthetics: aspect harmonization between parts and comfort touch interior skins; processing: processability on standard thermoplastics processing equipment; design flexibility: suitability for coextrusion (coprocessing: molding, extrusion, blow molding) with other polymers for multipart system designs; weight reduction: lower density, part design optimization, and material replacement; recycling: fully recyclable within the manufacturing process. Applications Santoprene TPV grades are designed for a broad range of specific engineered applications. Automotive components Santoprene TPV (thermoplastic vulcanization) is used in weather seals, underhood and under-car applications, and interior components. In weather seals, TPV is used as a lightweight alternative to thermoset rubber materials in semi-dynamic and static parts, while in underhood and under-car applications it is well-suited for air ducts, tubing, molded seals, grommets, suspension bellows, cable jacketing, plugs, bumpers, and many other parts. This is due to its sealing performance and resistance to extreme temperatures, chemical exposure, and harsh environments. Building and construction products In commercial glazing seals, Santoprene TPV is used for curtain walls, storefronts, architectural windows, and skylight weather seal applications. It is also commonly used in residential glazing seals due to its low air and water infiltration ratings for the life of window and door systems. For road and rail construction projects, Santoprene TPV is used for bridge and parking decks, water stops, rail pads, and other applications. In plumbing, Santoprene TPV is used to create long-term seals, gaskets, and grommets that are resistant to flex fatigue, harsh temperatures, and chemicals. It can be used in a variety of sealing applications including pipe seals, bridge expansion joints and curtain walls, parts for potable water, and pipe seals for sewer and drainage. Household appliance parts Santoprene TPV is used in washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, refrigerators, small appliances, and floor care. Its properties enable it to be used in a range of parts including pump seals, hoses, couplings, vibration dampeners, drum rollers, knobs, and controls. Electrical components Santoprene TPV is used in wiring connectors to make watertight seals with