Synthetic Rubbers: Detailed Properties, Advantages, and Applications

1. Fluororubber (FKM)

• Properties:

• Extreme temperature resistance (-20°C to +250°C).

• Exceptional resistance to oils, fuels, solvents, acids, and bases.

• High tensile strength, low compression set, and excellent chemical stability.

• Flame-resistant and ozone-resistant.

• Advantages:

• Withstands aggressive chemicals and high-pressure environments.

• Long service life in aerospace and automotive applications.

• Applications:

• Aircraft fuel system seals, O-rings, and gaskets.

• Automotive transmission seals, engine hoses, and turbocharger components.

• Chemical processing equipment linings and gaskets.

2. Chloroprene Rubber (CR)

• Properties:

• Moderate oil resistance (better than natural rubber but less than FKM).

• Flame retardant with self-extinguishing properties.

• Good weather resistance (UV, ozone, and moisture).

• Flexible at low temperatures (-40°C to +120°C).

• Advantages:

• Cost-effective with easy processing (extrusion/molding).

• High mechanical strength and abrasion resistance.

• Applications:

• Wet suits, gloves, and industrial hoses.

• Adhesives for shoes and construction.

• Cable jackets and roofing membranes.

3. Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber (HNBR)

• Properties:

• Enhanced heat resistance (up to +150°C) compared to NBR.

• Superior resistance to oils, hydraulic fluids, and amines.

• High tensile strength and fatigue resistance.

• Low permeability to gases.

• Advantages:

• Retains elasticity under prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals.

• Longer lifespan than NBR in extreme conditions.

• Applications:

• Oil and gas drilling tools (packers, seals).

• Automotive timing belts, fuel injection components, and turbocharger seals.

• Industrial hydraulic cylinders.

4. Silicone Rubber (VMQ)

• Properties:

• Ultra-wide temperature range (-60°C to +200°C).

• High elasticity (up to 1000% elongation).

• Excellent electrical insulation and thermal stability.

• Biocompatible and inert.

• Advantages:

• Maintains flexibility in cryogenic and high-temperature environments.

• Resistant to UV, ozone, and weathering.

• Applications:

• Medical devices (catheters, implants).

• Electronic components (insulators, keypads).

• High-temperature gaskets for ovens and engines.

5. Fluorosilicone Rubber (FVMQ)

• Properties:

• Combines FKM’s chemical resistance and VMQ’s flexibility.

• Temperature range: -50°C to +230°C.

• Resistant to fuels, lubricants, and hydraulic fluids.

• Low compression set and good resilience.

• Advantages:

• Performs in both high-temperature and low-temperature extremes.

• Resistant to swelling in aviation fuels.

• Applications:

• Aircraft fuel system components (valves, seals).

• Deep-sea submersible gaskets and connectors.

• Automotive sensors and emission control systems.

6. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)

• Properties:

• Outstanding ozone and weather resistance.

• High dielectric strength and water resistance.

• Temperature range: -50°C to +150°C.

• Low gas permeability.

• Advantages:

• Most cost-effective for outdoor applications.

• Excellent vibration damping and noise reduction.

• Applications:

• Automotive weatherstripping, radiator hoses, and windshield seals.

• Roofing membranes and pond liners.

• Electrical cable insulation and power transmission belts.