A specialized hot-melt Thermoplastic Polyurethane adhesive powder used in DTF printing to bond ink with garment fibers.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) Powder is a specialized, heat-activated hot-melt adhesive powder that plays a critical role in the chemical bonding process of Direct to Film (DTF) apparel printing. During production, once the liquid textile ink design is digitally printed onto the PET film, the film immediately passes through a powder-shaker unit where the fine, white TPU granules are evenly dusted over the wet ink. The powder adheres strictly to the wet ink areas, while excess powder is shaken off non-printed zones. The film then passes through a curing heater at 120°C, melting the TPU powder into a solid, flexible, rubbery adhesive layer. When the cured transfer is subsequently heat-pressed onto a garment, the TPU adhesive melts once more, penetrating and locking onto the woven cotton or polyester fabric fibers. High-quality TPU powder is vital; it determines the wash durability, flexibility, and stretch-recovery of the print. Cheap or coarse powders result in stiff, rough prints that easily crack and peel after a few laundry cycles.