EPDM is a synthetic rubber material that is known for its excellent properties. It is frequently used in the construction and automotive industries as well as in other technical applications.

Properties of EPDM:

• EPDM is highly resistant to UV rays, ozone and extreme weather conditions.
• The material remains flexible over a wide temperature range, from around -30°C to +150°C.
• It is water-repellent and resistant to moisture and vapour.
• EPDM is resistant to many acids, alkalis and other chemicals.
• EPDM is an excellent electrical insulator.

CR stands for chloroprene rubber, also known under the trade name neoprene.
CR is recognised for its versatility and the combination of good mechanical and chemical properties that make it suitable for numerous applications in industry and everyday life.

Properties of CR:

• Resistant to UV radiation, ozone and oxygen. Very suitable for outdoor use.
• Remains flexible in a temperature range from approx. -35°C to +100°C.
• Resistant to many oils, greases and chemicals such as alcohols and bases.
• Not resistant to aromatic and chlorinated solvents.
• High tensile and tear strength.
• Good abrasion resistance and elasticity.

NR stands for natural rubber and is a natural polymer obtained from the latex of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). Natural rubber is known for its exceptional elasticity, high mechanical strength and versatility.

Properties of NR:

• Very good tensile and tear strength.
• Good abrasion resistance, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications.
• Performs optimally in a temperature range of approximately -50°C to +70°C.
• Resistant to water, alcohols, organic acids and bases.
• Susceptible to attack by oils, greases, solvents and ozone.

NBR stands for nitrile butadiene rubber, also known as nitrile rubber. This synthetic rubber is a copolymerisation of butadiene and acrylonitrile and is valued for its excellent resistance to oils and fuels as well as its mechanical properties.

Properties of NBR:

• NBR has excellent resistance to mineral oils, greases and many other chemicals.
• Good abrasion resistance and mechanical strength.
• Good tensile and tear strength.
• Operates in a temperature range from around -40°C to +100°C.
• Low gas permeability, making it ideal for applications requiring sealing.
• Good resistance to water, but less suitable for hot water or steam.

FKM stands for fluororubber and is a synthetic high-performance rubber produced by the polymerisation of fluorocarbons. FKM is often traded under the brand name Viton® from DuPont. It is characterised by exceptional chemical and thermal resistance and is used in demanding industrial and high-tech applications.

Properties of FKM:

• Works over a wide temperature range from -20°C to +200°C (even up to +250°C for short periods).
• Retains its mechanical properties even at high temperatures.
• Resistant to almost all chemicals.
• Excellent resistance to ozone, UV radiation and oxidative influences.
• Low gas permeability.
• High compression set resistance.

VMQ stands for vinyl methyl silicone rubber, often simply referred to as silicone. It is a synthetic elastomer consisting of polysiloxanes. VMQ is known for its exceptional temperature resistance, flexibility and chemical stability. It is used in many industries, especially where extreme temperatures or biocompatible materials are required.

Properties of VMQ:

• Wide temperature range from approximately -60°C to +200°C.
• Excellent resistance to UV rays, ozone and oxygen.
• Resistant to many chemicals such as alcohols, weak acids and bases.
• Susceptible to oils, greases and aromatic hydrocarbons.
• Maintains flexibility over a wide temperature range.
• Silicone is an excellent electrical insulator.
• Physiologically harmless and biocompatible.
• Higher gas permeability compared to other elastomers.

The table shows a rough classification according to various criteria. More detailed information can be found in the resistance list. The information in the table is for guidance only.

Download: Resistance overview.pdf