Neoprene rubber is one of the most durable, versatile and popular synthetic elastomer compounds on the market today. Developed by DuPont in 1930 as an oil resistant alternative and first officially introduced to the market a year later, neoprene continues to be a common choice for design engineers in practically all industries to this day, over 90 years after its invention.
The various names of Neoprene Rubber
Formed through the polymerisation of chloroprene, neoprene rubber is also widely known as Polychloroprene, however, when first marketed by American organisation DuPont and distributed to manufacturers, it was trademarked as DuPrene. As this name was applied only to the rubber material sold directly by DuPont, in 1936, it was renamed neoprene, a term suitable for generic use, regardless of the distributor.
Why Neoprene?
Over recent years, the many advantageous characteristics of neoprene have been made clear to manufacturers in industries such as:
- Aerospace
- Agriculture
- Athletic equipment
- Automotive
- Defence
- Healthcare and medical
- Rail
- Transport
So why is neoprene rubber so well suited to use for applications in such a wide variety of sectors?
Durability
Neoprene rubber is extremely physically tough. Due to its high tensile strength, it maintains durability in a wide range of scenarios. For example, it offers a high level of resistance against abrasion, twisting and tearing. Neoprene also features excellent compression set resistance, recovery and stress relaxation, returning to shape.
Resistance to oils, chemicals and solvents
Originally created to resist oils, neoprene maintains performance when exposed to a wide range of alcohols, chemicals and solvents.
Weather resistance
Neoprene is often chosen as a sealing material for outdoor applications as it maintains stability when subject to a wide range of temperatures, remaining effective when exposed to temperatures of between -20℃ and 80℃. In addition to good temperature resistance, it also resists ozone, UV and oxidation, provides water resistance and provides a seal against sand, dust, and other debris.
Fire resistance
Neoprene rubber can be supplied in fire resistant grades, meeting important industry fire and smoke safety requirements, including EN45545-2 and BS6853 Cat 2 for the rail and mass transit industry.
Cushioning and vibration isolation
Neoprene materials can be supplied in a wide range of thicknesses to provide strong protection against vibration, and offer sufficient cushioning for a wide range of applications, including neoprene gaskets, seating parts, and sporting protective gear and equipment.
Neoprene conversion
Neoprene is well suited to conversion via a range of manufacturing processes. It can be cut into sheet material, adhesive backed strips or tape, neoprene gaskets and washers, and can be fabricated along with other materials to provide custom products.
CB Frost are specialists in neoprene supply and conversion, for more information or to discuss your neoprene conversion requirements, visit cbfrost-rubber.com.