First introduced to the market just over 90 years ago, Neoprene continues to be one of the most popular and versatile materials available for a wide range of different uses.
Also known as Chloroprene, Neoprene is a synthetic elastomer that was developed as an alternative to natural rubber. Whilst it has many of the same properties, it is oil resistant and features superior resistance to environmental elements such as UV, ozone and general weathering.
Neoprene Rubber
In addition to the above characteristics, key properties of Neoprene rubber include high tensile strength and tear resistance, excellent compression set resistance and recovery, stress relaxation. All in all, neoprene rubber is highly durable and well suited to a long list of applications in various industries.
Neoprene Sponge
Neoprene sponge features a closed cell structure. This synthetic rubber shares many of the same properties as natural sponge and EPDM sponge and is ideally suited to a wide range of applications, however, whilst it is chemically inert, and performs well if exposed to oils and temperatures of approx. -20℃ to 75℃ (depending on grade), it does not have the same resistance to UV, ozone and general weathering.
Industrial uses of Neoprene
Neoprene in all forms is well suited to conversion via a range of manufacturing processes, including cutting, extrusion, moulding and fabrication.
Neoprene is widely used in industrial sectors including:
- Aerospace
- Agriculture
- Automotive
- Defence
- Healthcare and Medical
- Rail
- Transport
As durable and versatile materials, different grades of Neoprene are used for a range of applications, including gaskets and seals, insulation for wiring and cables, vibration damping and isolation, O-rings, and insulation strip or tape.
Wider uses of Neoprene Rubber and Sponge
Rail
Neoprene closed cell sponge EN45545-2 is now being used within rail for anti-vibration applications, where there is no requirement for high/low temperature, UV stability and memory/low stress relaxation but offers the benefit of being a cheaper alternative to other materials.
Sporting and medical support
Neoprene rubber is commonly used in the manufacture of supports worn for medical and sporting purposes. Whilst many materials will degrade over time as a result of friction from movement, Neoprene maintains its shape, helping provide lasting support for knees, elbows, wrists and other joints. Due to its softness and compression set, Neoprene is also comfortable to wear and can also be used in insoles for sporting shoes.
Wetsuits
As a material that performs well in high and low temperatures, as well as exhibiting great sealing and waterproofing abilities, Neoprene is widely used in the production of wetsuits and drysuits for surfers and divers, and waders for fishermen.
Safety clothing
As Neoprene is designed to resist oils and chemicals and prevent the ingress of water and liquids, it is used as a key material for safety gloves and other safety clothing. Certain grades of Neoprene rubber will perform well when subjected to low and high temperatures, helping to protect skin when working in such conditions.
Protective covers and sleeves
Neoprene is regularly used in the manufacture of protective sleeves or covers for laptops and other electronic devices. Not only does Neoprene sponge provide padding to protect electronic equipment from damage, it also features a natural resistance to electricity, helping to prevent the build up of static. Static build up in laptops and electrical equipment can be detrimental over time, so Neoprene helps to extend the life of electrical products.
More information on Neoprene
For more information on Neoprene materials, or for assistance in choosing the right grade to suit your application, call CB Frost on +44 (0)121 773 8494.