Novel elastomeric compositions that contain at least one thermoplastic
elastomer and at least one phase change solvent. Above the phase change
temperature, the phase change solvent solubilizes or intimately mixes
with the thermoplastic elastomers. Below the phase change temperature,
the phase change solvent solidifies or crystallizes within the
thermoplastic matrix. The phase change behavior of these materials
produce elastomeric compositions that exhibit lowered viscosity and
lowered processing temperature without substantially compromising the
mechanical properties. The present invention also relates a method of
lowering the viscosity and improving the processability of a
thermoplastic elastomer using the phase change solvent.