Rubber is a versatile material that finds extensive use in various industries due to its unique properties and characteristics. Over the years, different types of rubber have been developed to cater to specific applications and requirements. In this blog, we will explore the different types of rubber, their names, properties, and a diverse range of uses across industries.

1) Natural Rubber (NR)

Natural rubber, also known as NR, is a polymer derived from the latex of the Hevea brasiliensis tree. It is extracted by tapping the tree and collecting the latex. The latex is then processed to obtain natural rubber in the form of sheets or blocks.

Properties

Natural rubber possesses excellent elasticity, tear resistance, and low-temperature flexibility. It is known for its high resilience, allowing it to return to its original shape after being stretched or deformed. It also has good tensile strength and abrasion resistance.

Uses

Tire manufacturing: Natural rubber is a primary material used in the production of tires due to its superior resilience, grip, and wear resistance.

• Conveyor belts: Natural rubber is used in the manufacturing of conveyor belts due to its excellent tensile strength, flexibility, and durability.

• Footwear: Natural rubber is extensively used in the production of footwear, including rubber boots, sandals, and athletic shoes, owing to its cushioning properties and water resistance.

• Gloves: Natural rubber gloves provide protection in various industries, including healthcare, laboratory work, and chemical handling, due to their elasticity, tear resistance, and barrier properties.

• Industrial and consumer products: Natural rubber is utilized in the production of various industrial and consumer goods, such as hoses, seals, gaskets, adhesives, elastic bands, and balloons, owing to its elasticity and resilience.

2) Synthetic Rubber

Synthetic rubber is produced through chemical processes to mimic the properties of natural rubber. It is manufactured by polymerizing various monomers under controlled conditions, resulting in different types of synthetic rubber with specific properties.

Properties

Styrene Butadiene Rubber, also known as SBR, is a copolymer of styrene and butadiene. It exhibits good abrasion resistance, aging stability, and flexibility. SBR is characterized by its excellent resilience, low heat buildup, and resistance to wear.

Uses

SBR is commonly used in tire manufacturing, where it provides enhanced traction, improved fuel efficiency, and extended tire life. It is also utilized in the production of conveyor belts, gaskets, seals, and footwear.

Butyl Rubber (IIR)

Butyl rubber, or IIR (Isobutylene Isoprene Rubber), is known for its excellent air and gas impermeability. It offers high resistance to heat, aging, ozone, and chemicals. Butyl rubber exhibits low gas permeability and good vibration-damping properties.

Uses

Butyl rubber is commonly used in the production of inner tubes, tires, gaskets, and seals, particularly in applications that require good airtightness, such as automotive and aerospace industries. It is also used for applications where resistance to chemicals and weathering is essential.

3) Neoprene (CR)

Properties

Neoprene, also referred to as CR (Chloroprene Rubber), is highly resistant to heat, oil, chemicals, and weathering. It exhibits good elasticity and maintains its physical properties over a wide temperature range. Neoprene is known for its excellent flame resistance and low gas permeability.

Uses

Neoprene is extensively used in the production of gaskets, hoses, belts, wetsuits, and various industrial applications where resistance to harsh environments is crucial. It is widely utilized in the automotive, construction, and marine industries.

4) Nitrile Rubber (NBR)

Nitrile rubber, or NBR, is known for its excellent resistance to oil, fuel, and chemicals. It exhibits good mechanical properties and remains flexible at low temperatures. NBR offers high tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and resilience.

Uses

NBR is commonly used in the automotive industry for fuel and oil handling systems and in the manufacturing of seals, gaskets, O-rings, and gloves. It is also utilized in applications requiring resistance to oils, solvents, and harsh chemicals.

5) Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, or EPDM, is a durable and versatile synthetic rubber. It offers excellent resistance to weathering, ozone, UV radiation, and aging. EPDM exhibits good electrical insulation properties and maintains its elasticity over a wide temperature range.

Uses

EPDM is commonly used in roofing membranes, electrical insulation, automotive weatherstripping, seals, gaskets, and hoses. It finds application in industries where resistance to environmental factors and temperature fluctuations is crucial.

6) Silicone Rubber (VMQ)

Silicone rubber, or VMQ (Vinyl Methyl Silicone Rubber), is known for its excellent heat resistance and electrical insulation properties. It remains flexible and maintains its physical properties over a wide temperature range, making it suitable for high-temperature applications. Silicone rubber exhibits good UV and ozone resistance.

Uses

Silicone rubber is extensively used in the manufacturing of seals, gaskets, medical devices, electrical connectors, and kitchenware. It finds applications in the automotive, healthcare, and electrical industries, where heat resistance, electrical insulation, and biocompatibility are required.

7) Specialty Rubbers

Specialty rubbers are designed to meet specific requirements that standard rubbers may not fulfill. They are formulated to possess unique properties, such as exceptional resistance to heat, chemicals, abrasion, or extreme conditions.

Properties

Fluoroelastomers, commonly known by the brand name Viton®, exhibit exceptional resistance to heat, chemicals, fuels, oils, and solvents. They have excellent thermal stability and can withstand extreme temperatures.

Uses

Fluoroelastomers are commonly used in demanding industrial applications such as seals, gaskets, O-rings, and hoses in the automotive, aerospace, and chemical industries. They are ideal for applications that require resistance to aggressive chemicals and high-temperature environments.

8) Polyurethane (PU)

Polyurethane rubber, or PU, offers excellent abrasion resistance, high load-bearing capacity, and flexibility. It exhibits high tensile strength and tear resistance. PU can be formulated to have varying hardness levels, ranging from soft and flexible to hard and rigid.

Uses

Polyurethane rubber finds application in a wide range of industries. It is commonly used in the production of wheels, rollers, seals, bushings, and industrial parts. It is valued for its ability to withstand heavy loads, resist wear, and provide excellent impact resistance.

9) Hypalon (CSM)

Hypalon, also known as CSM (Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene), is a highly durable rubber with excellent resistance to chemicals, UV radiation, and extreme weather conditions. It exhibits good heat resistance, low-temperature flexibility, and flame retardancy.

Uses

Hypalon is extensively used in outdoor applications that require resistance to harsh environments. It is commonly employed in the production of roofing membranes, inflatable structures, pond liners, and marine applications such as boat fenders and buoys.

Conclusion

The availability of different types of rubber allows industries to choose materials that best suit their specific needs. Natural rubber and synthetic rubber variants, such as SBR, IIR, CR, NBR, EPDM, and VMQ, offer unique properties suitable for various applications, ranging from automotive and industrial to consumer and medical products. 

Specialty rubbers like FKM, PU, and CSM cater to specific demands that require exceptional resistance to heat, chemicals, abrasion, or extreme conditions. Understanding the different rubber types and properties is crucial in selecting the right material for a specific application, ensuring optimal performance, durability, and safety across industries.

If you’re seeking assistance with finding the right rubber material for your application or want to learn how is rubber made, contact our experts at Flextron now!