Neoprene rubber offers many possibilities for functionality in both the commercial and industrial worlds. Specifically, it is the chemical resistance of neoprene that has made it an in demand elastomer for various projects. Neoprene rubber gasket, hose, and door stripping products are many of the practical and every day uses where neoprene material can be found. The overall market demand for this elastomer has grown since its original invention in 1930 by the DuPont Company. With the development of the industrial world also came the demand for products such as synthetic elastomers.

Industrialization saw complex manufacturing taking place with the presence of increasingly complex chemicals. Prior to the development of synthetic elastomers like the neoprene material, people had to settle for natural rubber. Unfortunately, natural rubber, despite all its uses, could not last very long in the presence of chemicals. Manufacturers needed a chemically resistant rubber. Their prayers were answered when neoprene came onto the market. The chemical resistance of neoprene rubber made it an instant hit and it has been in use ever since. Whether neoprene sheets are to be used as a safety mechanism for fire doors in a business or as a gasket in a car, the chemical resistance of neoprene could get the job done due to a long list of inherent desirable qualities!

Neoprene is a type of synthetic elastomer that is comprised from polymerization of the monomer chloroprene. Rubber formed from the production of this polymer has many characteristics that make it stand apart from all other competitors. Originally developed to be an oil resistant alternative to natural rubber, neoprene is now known to have a much wider list of resistances and has far exceeded any previously thought expectations. The chemical resistance of neoprene has helped ensure its survival in the crowded rubber market.

Today, neoprene sheets are high demand for many different industries and businesses because it is ideal for multiple applications due to its many inherent characteristics. The chemical resistance of neoprene makes it popular in construction and other industrial settings. Neoprene is commonly sold in roll or sheet form. This allows for the easier fabrication of neoprene rubber gaskets, strips, seals, and other products. Some of the rubber’s beneficial properties include: resistance to ozone and weathering, resilience to damage from twisting or flexing, and burn resistance. Another one of the qualities that these products are known for and make this elastomer desirable is the high level of chemical resistance. The chemical resistance of neoprene rubber specifically includes:

• Hydrogen gas

• Natural gas

• Ammonium salts

• Mineral oils

• Silicone oils and greases

This elastomer is generally stable around a variety of chemicals while also maintaining its flexibility over a wide temperature range. These two qualities together make neoprene material ideal for use in gasketing applications where exposure to extreme chemicals and temperatures is inevitable. Neoprene sheets and rolls generally have a variable temperature range (-20 degrees Fahrenheit to 212 degrees Fahrenheit) and also offer moderate pliability and elasticity with a medium durometer (55-65). Neoprene products from Rubber-Cal are always in high demand as they are functional over a broad range of applications, both in the indoors and outdoors. If you need a neoprene rubber gasket or other such product, Rubber-Cal is a great source to go to!

The development and functionality makes this product able to be continually adapted and used in new ways. Neoprene material is already effective in many industries across a wide array of applications. The chemical resistance of neoprene, as well as its other physical properties, ensures that this trend will only continue as demand for synthetic rubbers persistently increase. Whatever your application may be, one of our rubber experts will gladly discuss any needs or concerns regarding the next step to your project. Here at Rubber-Cal, Inc. we have every intention of keeping up with the demand by continuing to supply functional and chemically resistant neoprene products that are reliable, long-lasting, and cost-effective! Give us a call today to discuss your application’s function to see if the chemical resistance of neoprene rubber will meet your demands!