Elastomers
Elastomers are polymers with high elasticity, returning to their original shape after deformation.
Common Elastomers & Their Properties:
Natural Rubber (NR) – High elasticity, good abrasion resistance, poor oil/chemical resistance.
Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) – Good abrasion resistance, moderate weather/oil resistance.
Polybutadiene Rubber (BR) – Excellent resilience, low heat buildup, poor oil resistance.
Nitrile Rubber (NBR) – Excellent oil/fuel resistance, good mechanical properties.
Neoprene (CR) – Good weather/ozone resistance, moderate oil resistance, flame retardant.
Ethylene-Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) – Excellent weather/ozone resistance, poor oil resistance.
Silicone Rubber (Q, VMQ) – High/low-temperature resistance, biocompatible, low strength.
Fluoroelastomers (FKM, Viton®) – Excellent heat/chemical/oil resistance, expensive.
Polyurethane Rubber (PU, AU, EU) – High abrasion resistance, good load-bearing capacity.
Butyl Rubber (IIR) – Low gas permeability, good chemical/weather resistance.
Each has unique trade-offs in flexibility, durability, and environmental resistance.
Perfluoroelastomer (FFKM)
Key Properties:
Extreme chemical resistance (resists nearly all acids, bases, solvents, and fuels).
Exceptional heat resistance (up to 300–325°C / 572–617°F).
Low gas permeability (better than FKM).
Excellent plasma resistance (used in semiconductor manufacturing).
Very expensive (highest-performance elastomer).
