Neoprene, also known as CR neoprene (or “chloropren” in Czech), is a polymer of chloroprene—hence neoprene’s other name, polychloroprene rubber. Neoprene possesses a broad range of properties that make it ideal for many general-purpose applications. The sheets of neoprene that neoprene suppliers, neoprene distributors, and neoprene wholesalers stock generally come in multiple thicknesses, levels of flexibility, and durometers—among other variants. When you need to buy neoprene, rest assured that you are not limited to just one option. Amongst neoprene products, such as a neoprene strip, neoprene gasket, and neoprene spacer, the right variation of neoprene is a very important to the outcome of your project. The varying qualities of each type of chloroprene rubber roll will help you select which sheets or rolls are best suited for your needs. One thing to pay attention to is neoprene thickness. Thickness is important in neoprene since a neoprene sheet’s thickness affects—for one thing—how much impact it can absorb. In contrast to thickness, neoprene durometer measures a thick neoprene sheet’s hardness. Neoprene hardness directly influences the elasticity and flexibility of the product. Another important consideration is a neoprene density, for this specification influences the applications for which a neoprene product can be used. The density of neoprene also affects the product’s weight. Neoprene’s weight will oftentimes influence how much force it can withstand—how much damage it can take. Here is a brief comparison of some of the most common products (neoprene) that are offered by neoprene manufacturers. Having many options is important when you buy neoprene. Should you need a product that is more specific, do not worry. Your neoprene manufacturer or neoprene distributor likely sells custom neoprene products, such as custom-cut neoprene discs. This article aims to give you a better understanding of the many neoprene characteristics so that you can make an educated decision when you decide to purchase neoprene rubber. Below, by way of questioning, we explore your options when it comes to neoprene sheeting. We will also compare the properties of neoprene across different types of neoprene. By the end of this article, your fundamental question, “Are there different grades of neoprene?”, will be well-answered.

Is Neoprene a Soft Material?

Because neoprene is a type of rubber, it is generally soft. However, because neoprene is offered in different levels of hardness, not all neoprene is soft. Regardless, soft neoprene typically has a durometer of 40A or lower, and it is usually engineered using a neoprene-nitrile blend. This neoprene blend also means that the soft, smooth neoprene will express different properties than sheets of neoprene which are made from neoprene alone. With a fairly low durometer of 40A, soft neoprene has good flexibility and elasticity. This option is ideal for applications requiring more pliability and movement. This version of the product is generally more difficult to produce; it has a higher content of neoprene; and it is therefore more expensive than other types of sheets of neoprene. But, for the applications that need it, soft neoprene cannot be substituted, making the costs worthwhile. The commonly-available thicknesses of soft neoprene are as follows (in inches): 1/16, 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2.

What Is the Standard Durometer of Neoprene?

The standard durometer of neoprene is 45A to 65A. This type of neoprene is often made from a nitrile-SBR-neoprene blend. It offers good resistance to gases and grease, and it possesses moderate protection against ozone. Since sheets of neoprene work well as sealants this product can be used in sound studios to seal in sound (or seal it out). It can also be used as an industrial gasket to seal in wanted chemicals and to keep unwanted chemicals out. This is the all-around, general-purpose version of neoprene that you will most popularly find on offer. With this durometer, CR neoprene has moderate flexibility and pliability. It is often used in places that require a level of hardness similar to that of soft neoprene but require an additional degree of sturdiness. Sheets of neoprene possessing this standard durometer is available in a wide variety of widths, gauges, and lengths. The commonly-available thicknesses of this type of neoprene follow (in inches): 1/16, 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, 3/8, 1/2, 3/4, and 1.

Is Neoprene a Hard Material?

Neoprene is not necessarily a hard material, but it is sold in relatively harder versions. Hard neoprene is usually produced from a blend of SBR, neoprene, and nitrile materials. The materials used to engineer this elastomer reinforce one another, making for a product that is unmatched in strength when compared to other versions of neoprene. Hard neoprene has a durometer that ranges between 65A and 75A. Since these durometer levels are comparatively higher than those of the above two neoprene categories, hard neoprene possesses much less pliability and very limited elasticity. This variety of chloroprene is best for applications that require less flexibility and motion but require unparalleled levels of resilience. The commonly-available thicknesses of this type of sheets of neoprene are as follows (in inches): 1/16, 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, 3/8, 1/2, 3/4, and 1.

Review: Are There Different Grades of Neoprene?

There are indeed different grades of neoprene. While there are multiple ways of categorizing neoprene material, the main way is by distinguishing levels of neoprene hardness. The sheets of neoprene that are commonly offered give you many options in regard to flexibility, durometer, and thickness. When you buy neoprene, do not forget to consider all your choices. By now, you are practically an expert in the domain of neoprene. Questions such as “Is neoprene a soft material?”, “What is the standard durometer of neoprene?”, and “Is neoprene a hard material?” are no longer daunting. Be sure to ask your rubber provider about all of the available options when it comes to this general-purpose rubber.