Neoprene Rubber: Properties, Applications and Advantages
- 26 June 2023
Neoprene rubber is one of the most versatile options on the market and is used in a wide range of industries as a result. It offers many benefits when compared with other materials, increasing its potential applications in various sectors.
Neoprene was created by DuPont in 1930 as an air and oil resistant alternative to natural rubber. It became the first mass-produced synthetic rubber and is considered to be a general all-purpose material.
There are several different types of neoprene rubber that are used for various applications. Its chemical makeup, physical characteristics and processing methods provide an insight into its unique capabilities.
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What is neoprene rubber?
Neoprene rubber, which has the chemical name polychloroprene, is part of a group of synthetic rubbers. It is produced when the organic compound chloroprene is polymerised.
Commonly used for sealing and insulation, it provides multiple benefits including resistance to oils, greases and petroleum-based products. With a good chemical stability, it will maintain flexible over a wide range of temperatures.
An all-round exceptional material, its physical properties and chemical composition make it an ideal choice for applications requiring flexibility, high insulation, water resistance and durability.
Neoprene rubber properties
Chloroprene is the key component behind neoprene’s exceptional properties. Also known as polychloroprene, chloroprene makes up between 65% and 75% of the polymer compound’s total weight. This results in a flexible yet strong elastomeric material, with exceptional thermal insulation properties.
Neoprene’s unique composition provides its superior performance compared with other synthetic rubbers. With good elasticity and high tear resistance and tensile strength, it can survive repeated stretching without becoming brittle or losing shape over time.
Water repellent, neoprene provides excellent protection against corrosion from moisture damage, so it’s ideal for outdoor applications, or for use near water.
When it comes to applications in extreme environments, the neoprene rubber temperature range spans from -50°F to 275°F, giving it a major advantage over many of its counterparts.
The density of neoprene rubber also influences its use. Solid neoprene rubber is extremely dense, weighing 1.23 grams per cubic centimetre. The spongy form, cellular neoprene, is easier to compress than the solid form. Variations in density make neoprene even more versatile.
Engineers measure neoprene rubber hardness using a durometer tester – a standardised way of measuring the hardness of rubber and plastic materials. Different shore hardness scales compare the materials using a universal consistent reference.
SBR rubber vs neoprene
What is the difference between SBR rubber and neoprene? While both are types of synthetic rubber, there are several significant differences. First, neoprene is usually cheaper than SBR. Aside from this, neoprene is oil resistant, while SBR is not. In addition, neoprene has better ozone resistance.
The difference between neoprene and nitrile rubber is that nitrile is particularly resistant to abrasion and chemicals, while neoprene is known to be more weather resistant and durable. While both alternatives have similar elastomeric properties, their different physical and chemical characteristics mean they are useful for distinctly different industries and applications.
Nitrile is commonly used in mobile equipment components, including hydraulic hoses and carburettors, while neoprene is frequently used in seals for shock absorbers, or for sealing windows and doors, for example.
What is neoprene rubber used for?
Neoprene is a popular choice for engineers who are seeking a versatile material that offers great value for money. Designers can create robust products to withstand harsh conditions, thanks to neoprene.
Perfect for use in applications subject to extreme temperatures, such as gaskets, hardwearing neoprene seals in industrial machinery, and computer components, it is also ideal for water-resistant seals, automotive parts and high thermal insulation.
Solid neoprene sheeting comes in various levels of hardness, from a soft commercial 50 shore to a hard grade 80 shore neoprene.
The types of industry that use neoprene include construction, glass and glazing, railways, ship building, aircraft and aerospace, electrical, automotive and engineering. Many applications need flame retardant neoprene, and several variations are available. Neoprene sheeting can be supplied in roll form, part rolls, or cut to any bespoke size.
