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Rubber Gasket Technology

Material glossary

We know that sometimes it can be challenging to follow our technical language. We live immersed in the details of materials and their applications, often assuming everything is clear to everyone, but we understand that’s not always the case. For this reason, we decided to share with you a clear and simple guide to our “materials vocabulary.” A little help to navigate terms and technologies, making it easier to understand the world of Tecnica Gasket.
Our materials
FKM

FKM is short for Fluoroelastomer, a type of synthetic elastomer based on fluorocarbons. It is known for its outstanding chemical, thermal and ageing resistance, making it an ideal choice for applications in harsh environments.

Main characteristics of FKM:

  1. Chemical resistance:
    • Excellent tolerance to oils, fuels, solvents, weak acids and bases.
    • Ideal for hydrocarbon-based fluids such as petrol and diesel.
  2. Thermal resistance:
    • Operational over a wide temperature range: -40 °C to +200/250 °C, depending on formulation.
  3. Durability against atmospheric agents:
    • Excellent ozone, UV and ageing resistance.
  4. Low gas permeability:
    • Ideal for applications requiring an airtight seal.
  5. Mechanical properties:
    • High compressive strength and good elasticity even at high temperatures.
  6. Environmental compatibility:
    • Resistant to synthetic fluids and aggressive mixtures.

Main applications of FKM:

  1. Automotive industry:
    • O-rings, seals and piping for fuel, lubrication and cooling systems.
  2. Chemical and petroleum industry::
    • Gaskets for pumps, valves and piping exposed to aggressive fluids.
  3. Aerospace:
    • Sealing components for high-performance fuels and hydraulic oils.
  4. Pharmaceutical and food industries:
    • Chemical-resistant seals for critical applications.
  5. Power generation:
    • Seals in turbines, geothermal plants and nuclear power plants.

Advantages over other elastomers:

  • Compared to HNBR: Offers superior chemical and thermal resistance, but may be less flexible at low temperatures.
  • Compared to NBR (nitrile): Has much better chemical and ageing resistance.
  • Compared to PTFE (Teflon): More elastic and easier to work with, but less resistant to extremely high temperatures.

FKM (fluoroelastomers) are polymeric materials widely used for their chemical and heat resistance. The difference between an FKM copolymer and an FKM thermopolymer lies mainly in their chemical structure and application properties:

FKM Copolymer

  • Structure: It consists of two main monomers, typically vinylidene fluoride (VDF) and hexafluoropropylene (HFP).
  • Properties:
    • Good chemical and thermal resistance.
    • Slightly higher flexibility than thermopolymers.
    • Ideal for applications requiring a combination of heat resistance and chemical resistance in moderate environments.
  • Uses: Gaskets, O-rings, and heat and chemical resistant coatings.

FKM Thermopolymer

  • Structure: Consists of a combination of three or more monomers, e.g. VDF, HFP and tetrafluoroethylene (TFE).
  • Properties:
    • Superior chemical and thermal resistance compared to copolymers.
    • Higher stiffness and mechanical stability, but less flexibility.
    • Resistant to a wider range of chemicals, including hydrocarbon compounds and aggressive acids.
  • Uses: Applications requiring high thermal and chemical stability, such as in the petrochemical, aerospace and automotive industries.

Choice between the two

The choice depends on the operating environment:

  • Copolymer: When greater flexibility and moderate chemical/thermal resistance are required.
  • Thermopolymer: For extreme conditions with high temperatures and aggressive chemicals.
  •  

A peroxide FKM is a type of fluoroelastomer cross-linked (vulcanised) using peroxides instead of the classical bisphenol-based cross-linking system. This difference in the vulcanisation process gives it specific properties that make it suitable for certain applications.

Characteristics of peroxide FKM

  1. Improved chemical resistance:
    • Excellent resistance to aggressive chemicals, including strong bases, amines and hydrolysis-containing fluids, which could damage a bisphenol-cured FKM.
    • Enhanced tolerance to water- or steam-based fluids.
  2. High resistance to heat and thermal ageing:
    • Excellent performance in high temperature environments.
  3. Increased resistance to permanent compression:
    • Superior shape retention properties even under prolonged load.
  4. Slightly higher stiffness and hardness:
    • Peroxide-cured FKMs tend to have greater stiffness than bisphenol-cured versions, which may make them less suitable for applications requiring extreme flexibility.
  5. Compatibility with specific additives::
    • Require the presence of coagents (e.g. TAIC or trialkylcyanurate) during vulcanisation to optimise cross-linking.

Common applications

  • Industries with aggressive fluids: Pumps, seals and valves exposed to water- or alkaline-based fluids.
  • Automotive and petrochemical industries: Components in contact with oxygenated fuel mixtures or oils containing amines.
  • Environments with high temperature steam
FFKM

FFKM is the abbreviation for Perfluoroelastomer, a type of high-performance synthetic elastomer composed almost entirely of fluorine. FFKM are among the most chemically and thermally resistant materials available in the elastomer industry, designed for extremely aggressive environments.

Main characteristics of FFKM:

  1. Outstanding chemical resistance:
    • Inert against almost all chemicals, including strong acids, bases, organic solvents, fuels and aromatic hydrocarbons.
  2. Wide operating temperature range:
    • From -15 °C to +327 °C (some formulations can withstand even more extreme temperatures).
  3. Excellent thermal stability:
    • Retains its elastic properties even at very high temperatures.
  4. Gas tightness:
    • High resistance to gas permeability, ideal for vacuum or high pressure applications.
  5. Durability in extreme environments:
    • Resistance to ozone, UV and ageing, with long service life even in critical conditions.
  6. Flexibility and resilience:
    • Elastic behaviour maintained even in chemically aggressive environments.

Main applications of FFKM:

  1. Chemical and pharmaceutical industry:
    • O-rings and seals for reactors, pumps and valves in highly aggressive chemical environments.
  2. Oil and gas industry:
    • Seals for offshore installations, oil exploration and production, with exposure to acid gases.
  3. Aerospace:
    • Seals for engines and components in systems exposed to fuels, oils and high temperatures.
  4. Semiconductor industry:
    • Seals resistant to plasma and chemically pure environments for semiconductor manufacturing.
  5. Automotive:
    • Applications in high-performance engines and transmission components exposed to aggressive fluids.

Advantages over other elastomers.:

  • Compared to FKM (fluoroelastomer).: FFKM offers superior chemical and thermal resistance, albeit at a significantly higher cost.
  • Compared to HNBR or NBR.: FFKM is unmatched in chemical resistance and thermal stability but is less elastic and significantly more expensive.
  • Compared to PTFE (Teflon).: It offers better flexibility and elasticity while maintaining high chemical resistance.
VMQ

VMQ is the abbreviation for Vinyl Methyl Silicone Rubber, a silicone rubber commonly known as standard silicone rubber. It is a very versatile elastomer known for its excellent thermal, chemical and elastic properties, particularly suitable for applications requiring resistance to wide temperature variations.

Main characteristics of VMQ:

  1. Wide operating temperature range:
    • -60 °C to +200/230 °C, with some formulations able to withstand up to +250 °C.
  2. Elasticity:
    • Retains flexibility even at very low temperatures.
  3. Chemical inertness:
    • Resistant to oils, fats, dilute acids and some solvents, but less effective against fuels and aromatic oils.
  4. Weathering resistance:
    • Very good resistance to ozone, UV rays, humidity and ageing.
  5. Electrical insulation:
    • Excellent dielectric property, making it ideal for electronic applications.

Main applications of VMQ:

  1. Automotive industry:
    • Gaskets, air hoses, connectors and heat-resistant coatings.
  2. Medical and food industry:
    • Sealants and components for sterile equipment due to its biocompatibility.
  3. Electronics and telecommunications:
    • Insulation for cables and electronic components exposed to varying temperatures.
  4. Aerospace industry:
    • Sealing components exposed to extreme weather conditions.
  5. General industrial industry:
    • Seals and o-rings in harsh environments, such as ovens or cryogenic applications.

Advantages over other elastomers:

  • Compared to NBR or HNBR: VMQ excels in heat resistance and weathering stability, but is less resistant to fuels and oils.
  • Compared to EPDM: VMQ has a wider temperature range and better UV resistance.
  • Compared to FKM: It offers greater flexibility at low temperatures, but lower chemical resistance.
LSR

LSR (Liquid Silicone Rubber) is a type of silicone in liquid form that is mainly used for injection molding. With its combination of elasticity, strength and high-precision machining capabilities, LSR is ideal for a wide range of industrial, medical and consumer applications.

Key Features of LSR

  1. High Thermal Resistance:
    • Maintains elastic and mechanical properties over a temperature range of -50°C to +200°C (and above for short periods).
  2. Biocompatibility:
    • Ideal for medical and food applications, due to its safety for direct skin or food contact.
  3. High Chemical Resistance:
    • Resistant to many oils, greases, diluted acids and atmospheric agents.
  4. Excellent Mechanical Properties:
    • High elasticity, compressive strength and good springback.
  5. Dimensional Stability:
    • Retains shape even after compression cycles or exposure to stress.
  6. Electrical Insulation:
    • Excellent dielectric properties, making it ideal for electronic components.
  7. Ease of Processing:
    • Can be injection molded in rapid cycles and with precision, allowing the production of complex and detailed parts.

Application Areas

1. Medical and Healthcare

  • Medical Devices: Catheters, valves, pump seals.
  • Personal Care Products: Pacifiers, teats, and respirator masks..

2. Food Industry

  • Gaskets and Caps: For direct contact with food and beverages.
  • Kitchenware: Cake molds, spatulas, and heat-resistant containers.

3. Electronics

  • Insulation Components: Connectors, sheaths, and gaskets.
  • LEDs and Lighting: Transparent LSR is used in optical applications for housings and lenses.

4. Automotive

  • Gaskets: For engines, cooling systems, and headlights.
  • Anti-Vibration Components: To dampen shocks and vibrations.
  • Keyboards: Flexible and durable buttons.

5. Consumer Products

  • Sporting Goods: Watch bands, mouthpieces, and ergonomic grips.
  • Baby Products: Pacifiers, teething rings, and soft accessories.

Advantages of LSR Molding

  • Precision: Ideal for small, complex parts with tight tolerances.
  • Production Efficiency: Rapid molding and mass production capability.
  • Durability: High resistance to wear, UV rays, and aging.
EPDM

EPDM (ethylene-propylene-diene monomer) is a type of synthetic rubber widely used due to its excellent resistance to atmospheric agents, ozone and UV rays, as well as its flexibility and durability over a wide temperature range. It is particularly appreciated in various sectors, including:

Main characteristics of EPDM:

  • Thermal resistance: From approximately -40°C to +120°C (and up to +150°C for short periods).
  • Chemical resistance: Excellent against acids, bases and polar solvents.
  • Elasticity: Maintains flexibility even at low temperatures.
  • Long life: Does not degrade easily with time or exposure to sunlight.

Sectors of use:

EPDM (ethylene-propylene-diene monomer) gaskets are used in various sectors due to their excellent resistance and versatility. Here are the main areas of use:

  1. Construction
  • Insulation for doors and windows: EPDM gaskets guarantee an airtight seal, improving thermal and acoustic insulation.
  • Waterproofing: Used in applications such as roofs, facades and expansion joints to prevent water infiltration.
  • Windows: Seals for aluminum, wood and PVC frames.

  1. Automotive
  • Seals for doors and windows: EPDM is chosen for its ability to withstand temperature variations and prolonged exposure to atmospheric agents.
  • Seals for hood and trunk: To protect against water and dust infiltration.
  • Pipes and hoses: Used in cooling systems or for air conditioning.

  1. Mechanical industry
  • O-rings and flat gaskets: Ideal for static and dynamic joints where resistance to extreme temperatures or chemical agents is required.
  • Plumbing and pneumatic systems: EPDM gaskets are resistant to oils, polar solvents and non-aggressive chemicals.

  1. Sanitary and water supply sector
  • Piping systems: Gaskets for joints between PVC, metal or concrete pipes.
  • Taps and valves: To seal effectively without risk of contamination.
  • Water treatment plants: Thanks to resistance to chemical corrosion and water.

  1. Energy sector
  • Solar and photovoltaic systems: Used to protect cables and panels from humidity and atmospheric agents.
  • Wind turbines: Gaskets for structural joints exposed to the elements.

  1. Household appliances
  • Seals for washing machines and dishwashers: EPDM is resistant to hot water, steam and detergents.
  • Refrigerator gaskets: To maintain airtightness and ensure energy efficiency.

  1. Railway and aviation
  • Window and door seals: Resist wear and provide thermal and acoustic insulation.
  • Structural joint seals: To resist vibration and mechanical stress.

The main difference between sulphur-cured EPDM and peroxide-cured EPDM is the cross-linking method and the final properties of the material. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs of the application, as each method provides unique characteristics.

Sulphur-Cultivated EPDM

  1. Vulcanization method:
    • Cross-linking occurs via a sulphur-based process, often with accelerators.
    • Forms sulphur bridges between polymer chains.
  2. Main properties:
    • Flexibility: Greater elasticity and deformability, ideal for dynamic applications.
    • Heat resistance: Moderate, suitable up to approximately 120-130°C.
    • Chemical resistance: Limited to oils and some chemicals, less suitable in aggressive environments.
    • Ageing resistance: Good, but lower than peroxide in hot environments.
  3. Typical uses:
    • Applications where elasticity and good mechanical resistance are required, such as dynamic seals, hoses and sealing profiles.

Peroxide-vulcanized EPDM

  1. Vulcanization method:
    • Cross-linking occurs via peroxides, often with the use of coagents to improve cross-linking.
    • Forms carbon-carbon bonds, which are more stable than sulfur bridges.
  2. Main properties:
    • Heat resistance: Superior to sulfur vulcanization, with stable performance up to about 150-180°C.
    • Chemical resistance: Improved to oils, aggressive fluids and oxidizing agents.
    • Compression set: Lower, meaning it maintains its shape better under long-term load.
    • Stiffness: Higher than sulfur vulcanization, with reduced elasticity.
    • Ageing resistance: Better, especially in the presence of heat and ozone.
  3. Typical uses:
    • Static or high temperature applications, such as gaskets, pipe linings and components in chemically aggressive environments.

Quick comparison

Properties

EPDM Sulfur

EPDM Peroxide

Elasticity

High

Moderate

Heat resistance

Up to 130°C

Up to 180°C

Compression set

Lower

Better

Chemical resistance

Standard (Limited)

Superior

Aging

Good

Excellent

The choice between the two depends on the application: sulfur for flexibility and dynamic uses; peroxide for thermal, chemical stability, and durability.

NBR

NBR is short for Nitrile Butadiene Rubber, also known as nitrile rubber. It is a synthetic elastomer particularly appreciated for its excellent resistance to oils, fuels and chemical fluids. Due to its versatility and relatively low cost, NBR is one of the most widely used materials in the industrial and automotive sectors.

Key characteristics of NBR:

  1. Chemical resistance::
    • Excellent tolerance to oils, fuels, greases and hydraulic fluids.
    • Limited resistance to polar solvents, esters and ketones.
  2. Thermal properties:
    • Typical operating range: -30 °C to +120 °C (with some formulations extending up to +150 °C).
  3. Mechanical properties:
    • High tensile strength, wear resistance and compression resistance.
    • Good elasticity, although lower than natural rubber.
  4. Durability:
    • Moderate resistance to ozone, UV rays and weathering (but can be improved with specific additives).
  5. Resistance to low temperatures:

Main applications of NBR:

  1. Automotive industry:
    • Gaskets, fuel and oil pipes, O-rings and cable sheathing.
  2. Petroleum industry:
    • Seals and gaskets for pumps and valves in contact with oils and hydraulic fluids.
  3. Industrial components:
    • Machine rollers, oil-resistant conveyor belts and protective gloves.
  4. Consumer products:
    • Oil-resistant gloves, industrial carpets and sports equipment.

Advantages over other elastomers:

  • Compared to EPDM: NBR offers much better chemical resistance to oils and fuels, but is less resistant to weathering.
  • Compared to CR (neoprene):  Better oil resistance, but less versatile in weathering applications.
  • Compared to HNBR: NBR is better suited to moderate temperatures, but has lower thermal and chemical resistance.
HNBR

HNBR is short for Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber, a synthetic elastomer obtained by partial or complete hydrogenation of nitrile rubber (NBR). This chemical process significantly improves heat, oxidation and UV resistance, while maintaining the excellent oil and fuel resistance typical of NBR.

Main features of HNBR:

  1. Heat resistance:
  2. Maintains its mechanical properties at temperatures between -40 °C and +150 °C
  3. Chemical resistance:
    • Excellent resistance to oils, fuels, hydraulic fluids and coolants.
    • Resistant to oxidising compounds and aggressive chemicals.
  4. Mechanical properties:
    • High tensile, tear and abrasion resistance.
    • Excellent elasticity and durability under dynamic stress conditions.
  5. Weathering Resistance:
    • Superior ozone, UV and ageing resistance compared to NBR.
  6. Environmental compatibility:
    • Good resistance to fluids containing additives such as glycols and bio-ols.

Main applications of HNBR:

  1. Automotive industry:
    • Gaskets and o-rings for engines, transmissions and air conditioning systems.
    • Flexible hoses for fuels, oils and coolants.
  2. Oil and gas industry:
    • Seals and components for drilling and production equipment due to resistance to aggressive fluids.
  3. Chemical industry:
    • Seals for pumps, valves and compressors in chemically aggressive environments.
  4. Medicine and pharmaceuticals:
    • Components for sterile devices, for compatibility with synthetic oils and sterile environments.
  5. Industrial applications:
    • Conveyor belts, belting and components exposed to intense wear and tear.
FVMQ

FVMQ is the abbreviation for Fluorosilicone Rubber, a special type of elastomer belonging to the silicone rubber family, with fluorinated groups added to its molecular structure. This chemical modification gives FVMQ an excellent combination of properties, such as chemical resistance and thermal stability.

Main characteristics of FVMQ:

  1. Chemical resistance:
    • Excellent tolerance to fuels, oils and solvents, including those containing aromatic and halogenated hydrocarbons.
  2. Wide operating temperature range:
    • From approximately -60 °C to +200 °C (or more, in specific applications).
  3. Chemical inertness:
    • Highly resistant to oxidising agents, ozone and UV radiation.
  4. Thermal stability:
    • Maintains mechanical properties over a wide temperature range.
  5. Elasticity:
    • Similar to standard silicone rubbers, with excellent recovery properties.
  6. Limitations:
    • Lower abrasion and tensile strength than other engineering elastomers.
    • Relatively high cost compared to non-fluoro rubbers.

Main applications of FVMQ:

  1. Aerospace sector:
    • Fuel-resistant seals and o-rings for jet engines and hydraulic systems.
  2. Automotive:
    • Gaskets for fuels, turbo systems and seals for engines exposed to high temperature oils.
  3. Chemical industry:
    • Diaphragms and gaskets in contact with aggressive solvents.
  4. Electronics industry:
    • Insulating materials for applications in harsh environments.
  5. Medical and pharmaceutical (in specific cases):
    • For applications requiring chemical resistance and high temperatures
XNBR

(Carboxylate Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) is a variant of nitrile rubber (NBR), characterized by the addition of carboxyl groups in the polymer structure. This chemical modification improves some properties compared to standard nitrile rubber, such as wear resistance, tensile strength and abrasion, making it particularly useful in industrial applications.

Main properties of the XNBR compound:

  1. Improved mechanical resistance: Thanks to its chemical structure, it offers greater resistance to tears and wear.
  2. Chemical compatibility: It is resistant to oils, greases and solvents, like traditional nitrile rubber.
  3. Elasticity: Good flexibility and ability to maintain its properties at variable temperatures.
  4. Specific applications: Ideal for gaskets, pipes, rollers and components used in difficult conditions, such as in the petrochemical, automotive and food industries.
NR

 It is the abbreviation of Natural Rubber, a type of elastomer derived from latex, mainly extracted from the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). It is one of the most widely used elastomeric materials in the world due to its excellent physical and mechanical properties.

Main characteristics of natural rubber (NR):

  1. Exceptional elasticity: It has a high elongation at break (up to 700%) and a great capacity for recovery after deformation.
  2. High resistance to fatigue: Ideal for applications where it is necessary to tolerate cyclic deformations.
  3. Good mechanical properties: It offers excellent resistance to traction and abrasion.
  4. Excellent adhesive properties: It bonds easily with various materials.
  5. Temperature resistance: Stable up to approximately 70 °C, but degrades at higher temperatures.
  6. Chemical limitations: It is not resistant to oils, solvents, ozone and UV rays.

Common Applications:

  • Automotive: Tires, gaskets, suspensions, and belts.
  • Industrial: Hoses, conveyor belts, and vibration isolators.
  • Consumer: Gloves, balls, rubber bands, and medical products such as piston rings.
CSM

CSM is the abbreviation for Chlorosulphonated Polyethylene Rubber. This synthetic elastomer is prized for its exceptional resistance to weathering, chemicals and UV radiation, making it ideal for extreme environments.

Main characteristics of CSM:

  1. Chemical resistance:
    • Excellent tolerance to oils, weak acids, bases and oxygenated solvents.
    • Resistant to fuels and hydraulic fluids, but less suitable for aromatic solvents and chlorinated hydrocarbons.
  2. Weatherability:
    • Excellent resistance to ozone, UV, ageing and weathering.
  3. Mechanical properties:
    • Good tensile and abrasion resistance.
    • Excellent flexibility, even at low temperatures.
  4. Thermal properties:
    • Operating range of -20 °C to +120 °C.
  5. Flammability:
    • Intrinsically flame retardant due to the presence of chlorine in the molecular structure.
  6. Salt water resistance:
    • Ideal for marine environments or exposure to saline conditions.

Main applications of MSC:

  1. Automotive industry:
    • Gaskets, fluid hoses and cable jackets resistant to fuels and oils.
  2. Building and construction:
    • Protective coatings for exposed structures, waterproof membranes and roofing.
  3. Marine sector:
    • Coatings for cables and pipes exposed to salt water.
  4. Chemical industry:
    • Gaskets and coatings for tanks and equipment in contact with aggressive chemicals.
  5. Consumer products:
    • Curtains, coatings of technical textiles and inflatable materials.

Advantages over other elastomers:

  • Compared to EPDM: CSM offers superior chemical and ozone resistance, but at a higher cost.
  • Compared to CR (neoprene): Better UV and ageing resistance, but with similar thermal resistance.
  • Compared to NBR: Has a wider range of applications in outdoor and marine environments, but slightly lower oil resistance.
CR

CR is short for Chloroprene Rubber, commonly known as neoprene. It is one of the most versatile synthetic elastomers, with a good combination of mechanical properties, chemical resistance and durability, suitable for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications.

Key Features of CR:

  1. Chemical Resistance:
    • Good tolerance to mineral oils, greases, mild solvents and chemical fluids.
    • Limited resistance to oxygenated fuels and aromatic oils.
  2. Thermal Resistance:
    • Typical operating range: -40°C to +120°C, with some formulations reaching +150°C
  3. Weatherability:
    • Excellent resistance to ozone, UV and weathering, ideal for outdoor use.
  4. Mechanical Properties:
    • Good tensile strength, abrasion resistance and permanent deformation.
  5. Flame resistance:
    • Inherently flame retardant, with self-extinguishing properties.
  6. Water resistance:
    • Good waterproofing and salt water resistance, suitable for marine applications.

Main applications of CR:

  1. Automotive:
    • Seals, belts, fluid hoses and vibration isolation systems.
  2. Marine:
    • Seals and coatings for salt water applications.
  3. Building and construction::
    • Waterproofing membranes, roofing and expansion joints.
  4. Industrial equipment:
    • Protective gloves, tank linings and machine rollers.
  5. Consumer products:
    • Wetsuits, technical textiles and sports equipment coatings.

Advantages over other elastomers:

  • Compared to NBR (nitrile): CR offers better weather and flame resistance, but has poorer chemical resistance to oils.
  • Compared to EPDM: It is more resistant to oils and flame, but less elastic at very low temperatures.
  • Compared to FKM (fluoroelastomer): It is cheaper and more versatile, but with inferior thermal and chemical performance.
CIIR

CIIR stands for Chlorinated Isobutylene-Isoprene Rubber, also known as chlorinated butyl rubber. It is a modified version of standard butyl rubber (IIR), obtained by chemical chlorination. This modification gives butyl rubber unique properties that make it suitable for specific industrial applications.

Key Features of CIIR:

  1. Low Gas Permeability: Similar to standard butyl rubber, it offers an excellent barrier to gases such as oxygen and nitrogen.
  2. Chemical Resistance: Improved over IIR, especially against solvents, oils, and chemicals.
  3. Good Ozone and Weather Resistance: Excellent outdoor durability.
  4. Adhesion properties: Improved by chlorination, making it suitable for coatings and bonding.
  5. Heat resistance: Improved compared to unmodified butyl rubber, with typical operation up to approximately 150 °C.
  6. Elasticity and damping: Maintains the excellent elastic and damping properties of butyl rubber.

Main applications of CIIR:

  • Automotive: Pipes, tank gaskets and membranes.
  • Tires: Inner layers of tires, due to low gas permeability.
  • Pharmaceuticals: Caps for drug vials and containers, due to its chemical inertness.
  • Coatings: Protective barriers against aggressive chemicals.
TPV

A thermoplastic TPV (thermoplastic vulcanization) is a special type of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), characterized by a unique combination of rubber-like elastic properties and the ability to be processed like a plastic. It is composed of a thermoplastic matrix, usually polypropylene (PP), and an elastomeric phase, often made of vulcanized EPDM rubber.

Key Features:

  1. Elasticity: Rubber-like behavior, ideal for applications requiring flexibility and resilience.
  2. Heat and chemical resistance: Excellent thermal and chemical stability, superior to regular TPEs.
  3. Ease of processing: Can be processed using common thermoplastic techniques, such as injection molding, extrusion, and blow molding.
  4. Recyclability: Can be remelted and reused, making it an environmentally friendly choice over traditional rubber.
  5. Durability: High resistance to fatigue and wear.

Common Applications:

  • Automotive: Gaskets, hoses, bellows, and interior trim.
  • Electronics: Flexible cables and connectors.
  • Consumer products: Handles, non-slip coatings, toys, and sporting goods.
  • Medical: Reusable components, due to its ability to be sterilized.

TPV is a versatile choice in many industries due to its combination of flexibility, strength, and processability.

TPE

Il TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) is a class of polymeric materials with elastic properties similar to rubber, but workable like plastics. It is very versatile and is used in many sectors thanks to the combination of elasticity, flexibility and ease of processing.

Main characteristics of TPE

  • Elasticity: Similar to that of vulcanized rubber.
  • Processability: It can be injection molded, extruded or thermoformed like plastic materials.
  • Thermal resistance: Generally between -40°C and +120°C (depending on the type).
  • Chemical resistance: Good against oils, greases, solvents and some chemical agents.
  • Recyclability: More environmentally friendly than vulcanized rubber, as it can be recycled.

Sectors of use of TPE

1. Automobilistico

  • Seals: For doors, windows and hoods, thanks to their flexibility and resistance to bad weather.
  • Mats and coverings: Non-slip and wear-resistant.
  • Safety components: Grips and bumpers.

4. Healthcare

  • Medical products: Gaskets for equipment, pipes and protective devices.
  • Personal hygiene items: Such as toothbrush heads or flexible containers.

5. Electronics

  • Cables and coatings: For their resistance to bending and high temperatures.
  • Insulating components: Used in electronic devices for protection and insulation.

6. Food industry

  • Gaskets suitable for contact with food, for packaging or storage.
  • Caps and closures: Elastic and resistant.

7. Sports and leisure

  • Sports equipment: Such as bicycle grips, anti-slip surfaces or elastic bands.
  • Fitness items: Elastic tubes, grips or flooring.
FEPM

FEPM (Fluoro-Ethylene-Propylene Monomer), also known as TFE/P or by the trade name Aflas, is a type of fluoro-polymer elastomer belonging to the family of fluorinated rubbers. It is designed for advanced industrial applications, where high chemical, thermal and mechanical resistance are required.

Main characteristics of FEPM

  1. Chemical resistance:
    • Excellent against strong acids (such as sulfuric or nitric acid).
    • Very good resistance to strong bases (such as sodium hydroxide or ammonia).
    • High resistance to aggressive oils and fluids (including synthetic and silicone oils).
  2. Thermal resistance:
    • Operating temperature: generally between -5°C and +230°C, with peaks of up to 250°C in specific conditions.
    • NonIt does not easily degrade under the effect of heat.
  3. Compatibility with specific fluids:
    • Resistant to automotive and aviation fluids, such as phosphate ester hydraulic fluids.
    • Good tolerance to steam and H2S fluids.
  4. Durability:
    • Resistant to aging, UV, ozone and weathering.
    • Excellent sealing properties even under dynamic conditions.
  5. Chemical rigidity:
    • Unlike traditional fluororubbers (FKM), FEPM offers a unique combination of resistance to extreme chemicals and stability at high temperatures.

FEPM Applications

FEPM is widely used in industries that require resistance to extreme conditions:

1. Oil and gas industry

  • Seals for valves, pumps and joints, in environments with high concentrations of H2S and other corrosive fluids.
  • Static and dynamic seals for offshore applications.

2. Chemical

  • O-rings and gaskets used in chemical plants to handle aggressive acids, bases and solvents.
  • Sealing components for equipment that works with phosphate esters and highly reactive fluids.

3. Automotive

  • Sealing systems in engines for high temperature fluids or aggressive chemical additives.
  • Heat and oil resistant hoses and tubes.

4. Aerospace

  • Gaskets and sealing materials for propulsion systems and highly corrosive hydraulic fluids.

5. Electronics

  • Insulation for cables exposed to intense heat and chemicals.

Mechanical and chemical properties compared to FKM

  • Similarities: Like FKM, FEPM offers excellent chemical and thermal resistance.
  • Advantages over FKM: Superior resistance to strong bases, steam and highly corrosive fluids (such as H₂S or reactive fluids in the petroleum and chemical industries).
IIR

IIR (Isobutylene-Isoprene Rubber), also known as butyl rubber, is a synthetic elastomer characterized by extraordinary gas impermeability and good chemical resistance. These properties make it particularly suitable for applications requiring insulation, sealing and durability.

Key features of IIR

  1. Low gas permeability:
    • Excellent barrier against air and other gases, including specialty gases such as helium.
    • Ideal for applications where pressure or vacuum must be maintained.
  2. Good chemical resistance:
    • Resistant to oils, dilute acids, bases, alcohols and ketones.
    • Limited compatibility with aromatic hydrocarbons and non-polar solvents.
  3. Wide temperature range:
    • Typically operating between -40°C and +120°C.
    • Maintains flexibility even at low temperatures.
  4. Excellent dielectric properties:
    • High electrical insulation, making it ideal for applications in the electronics sector.
  5. Ageing resistance:
    • Good stability against ozone, UV rays and atmospheric agents.
  6. Vibration absorption:
    • Ability to dampen vibrations and noise, thanks to its elastic properties.

TYPES OF IIR

  • Traditional IIR: Standard butyl rubber used in many applications.
  • BIIR (Bromo-butyl) and CIIR (Chloro-butyl):
    • Modified versions to improve adhesion to metals and other materials.
    • Used for more critical applications, such as tires and coatings.

APPLICATION SECTORS

1. Automotive

  • Gaskets: Used in components that require chemical resistance and hermetic sealing.
  • Vibration dampers: To reduce noise and vibration in vehicles.

2. Construction

  • Waterproofing membranes: Used for roofs, foundations and underground structures.
  • Window seals: For thermal and acoustic insulation.

3. Healthcare

  • Pharmaceutical bottle caps: Thanks to its ability to prevent gas leaks or contamination.
  • Medical gloves: Alternative to latex, thanks to its chemical resistance.

4. Tires and transportation industry

  • Tire lining: To maintain pressure over time.
  • Tank and cistern gaskets: To contain fluids and gases without leaks.

5. Electronics

  • Electrical insulation: For cables and components that require high dielectric strength.
  • Gaskets for electronic equipment: Protection against external agents.

6. Chemical industry

  • Tank linings: Protection against aggressive chemicals.
  • Pump and valve gaskets: To handle diluted acids and bases.
ACM

ACM is the abbreviation for Acrylic Rubber, also known as acrylic rubber. It is a synthetic elastomer designed to offer good resistance to oils, moderate heat and automotive fluids, making it widely used in the automotive and industrial sectors.

Main characteristics of ACM:

  1. Chemical resistance:
    • Excellent tolerance to oils, lubricants and mineral oil-based hydraulic fluids.
    • Moderate resistance to polar fluids and oxidising compounds.
  2. Thermal resistance:
    • Typical operating range: -20 °C to +150 °C, with some formulations reaching +175 °C.
  3. Weathering resistance:
    • Good resistance to ozone, UV and ageing.
  4. Mechanical properties:
    • Good elasticity, but slightly lower than elastomers such as HNBR or FKM.
  5. Low-temperature resistance:
    • Limited, with an increase in stiffness below -20 °C.
  6. Compressive strength:
    • Good ability to retain shape after compression, ideal for static gaskets.

Main applications of ACM:

  1. Automotive industry:
    • Gaskets for engine covers and transmissions.
    • Flexible hoses for oil and fluids.
    • Gaskets and bellows for transmission systems and automatic transmissions.
  2. Industrial components:
    • Static seals and gaskets for machinery exposed to oil and heat.
  3. Household appliances:
    • Components for equipment subject to moderate oils and temperatures, such as compressors.

Advantages over other elastomers:

  • Compared to NBR (nitrile): ACM offers superior thermal and ozone resistance, but is less elastic and less resistant at low temperatures.
  • Compared to EPDM: It offers better resistance to oils and automotive fluids, but is not as versatile in low temperature environments.
  • Compared to FKM (fluoroelastomer):  While offering good resistance to oils, it has a lower chemical and thermal tolerance..
ECO

ECO is short for Epichlorohydrin Rubber, a type of synthetic elastomer known for its excellent chemical resistance and mechanical properties. It is derived from the polymer epichlorohydrin and is often blended with other materials to improve its performance

Key features of ECO:

  1. Chemical resistance:
    • Excellent resistance to oils, fuels, solvents and greases.
    • Good resistance to aggressive chemicals.
  2. Barrier properties:
    • Low gas permeability, making it suitable for applications where air or fluid tightness is required.
  3. Thermal resistance:
    • Typical operating range: -40 °C to +120/150 °C.
  4. Weatherability:
    • Excellent resistance to ozone, UV rays and aging.
  5. Good elasticity:
    • Maintains its elastic properties even at low temperatures.
  6. Electrical compatibility:
    • Excellent electrical insulation.

Key applications:

  1. Automotive:
    • Fuel lines, cooling systems and gaskets.
    • Cable jackets for their chemical resistance and insulation.
  2. Petrochemical industry:
    • Seals for pumps and valves in contact with aggressive media.
  3. Industrial components:
    • Gaskets, diaphragms and membranes.
  4. Electronics industry:
    • Insulation for cables and other components.

PU

PU is short for Polyurethane, a versatile polymeric material that can be used both as an elastomer (polyurethane rubber) and as a rigid plastic. Polyurethanes are known for their combination of excellent mechanical properties, abrasion resistance and ability to adapt to a variety of industrial applications.

Main characteristics of PU:

  1. High mechanical resistance:
    • Tensile, tear and compression resistant.
    • Excellent wear and abrasion resistance.
  2. Elasticity:
    • Can vary from stiff to very flexible, depending on formulation.
  3. Chemical resistance:
    • Good resistance to oils, greases and organic solvents.
    • Sensitive to hot water and concentrated acids.
  4. Thermal properties:
    • Typical operating range: -40 °C to +80 °C; some formulations can withstand up to +120 °C.
  5. Weathering Resistance:
    • Sensitive to degradation by UV and ozone, but can be improved with additives.
  6. Adhesion:
    • Excellent adhesion to various substrates such as metals, plastics and textiles.

PU types:

  1. Polyurethane elastomers::
    • Used for seals, rollers, belts and shock absorbers.
  2. Rigid PU:
    • Used in insulation panels, rigid foams and protective coatings.
  3. Flexible PU foam:
    • Used for upholstery in furniture, seats and mattresses.

Main applications of PU:

  1. Automotive industry:
    • Anti-vibration components, seals, protective coatings for exposed surfaces.
  2. Footwear industry:
    • Soles for shoes due to their strength and flexibility.
  3. Mechanical engineering industry:
    • Rollers, gears and other components subject to wear.
  4. Construction industry:
    • Thermal and acoustic insulation, protective paints.
  5. Consumer articles:
    • Furniture padding, mattress foams and protective coatings.

Advantages over other materials:

  • Compared to natural rubber: Better resistance to abrasion and oils.
  • Compared to PVC: More tensile and wear resistant
  • Compared to PTFE: More elastic and easier to mould.
AEM

AEM is short for Ethylene Acrylate Elastomer, also known as ethylene acrylic rubber. It is a synthetic elastomer characterized by a combination of ethylene and acrylate, with a small amount of polar monomers to improve chemical and thermal resistance. This material offers an excellent balance of mechanical performance, chemical resistance, and thermal durability, making it ideal for harsh environments.

AEM Key Features:

  1. Thermal Resistance:
    • Operating range -30°C to +175°C (with some formulations reaching +190°C).
  2. Chemical Resistance:
    • Excellent tolerance to oils, lubricants and automotive fluids.
    • Good resistance to oxygenated fuels and refrigerants.
  3. Elasticity:
    • Maintains good elastic properties at elevated temperatures.
  4. Weatherability:
    • Resistance to ozone, UV rays and aging.
  5. Mechanical Properties:
    • High resistance to compression and permanent deformation.
  6. Electrical Insulation:
    • BuonaGood capacitance

Main applications of AEM.:

  1. Automotive:
    • Flexible hoses for air and fuels.
    • Seals for cooling, transmission, and engine systems.
    • Guarnizioni per sistemi di raffreddamento, trasmissione e motori.
  2. Industrial industry:
    • Components exposed to high-temperature oils and lubricants.
    • Seals for compressors and pumps..
  3. Electrical applications.:
    • Insulators for cables and wiring in thermally critical environments.

Advantages over other elastomers.:

  • Compared to NBR (nitrile).: AEM offers superior thermal and chemical resistance.
  • Compared to EPDM: AEM performs better against oils and automotive fluids, but it is not suitable for extreme low-temperature applications.
  • Compared to FKM.: It offers good chemical resistance, but does not reach the thermal and chemical resistance level of FKM.
SBR

SBR (Styrene-Butadiene Rubber) is a synthetic elastomer composed of styrene and butadiene. It is one of the most widely used materials in the industrial sector due to its versatility, relatively low cost and good mechanical properties. It is widely used in applications requiring wear resistance, elasticity and workability.

MAIN CHARACTERISTICS OF SBR

  1. Good abrasion resistance: Ideal for applications where a wear-resistant material is required.
  2. High elasticity: Similar properties to natural rubber (NR), but with greater uniformity.
  3. Moderate thermal resistance: Operating between -40°C and +100°C, with limits compared to other elastomers.
  4. Good chemical resistance:
    • Resistant to weak acids, bases and alcohols.
    • Poor resistance to oils, hydrocarbons and organic solvents.
  5. Ease of processing: Suitable for multiple production techniques, such as molding, extrusion and calendering.
  6. Low cost: Economical alternative to other elastomers.

TYPES OF SBR

  • Hot SBR (Hot SBR): Produced at high temperatures (around 50°C), it has greater wear resistance and better workability.
  • Cold SBR (Cold SBR): Produced at low temperatures (5-10°C), it offers better mechanical properties and uniformity.

APPLICATION SECTORS

1. Tire industry

  • Tread compounds: Resistance to abrasion makes SBR essential for car and truck tires.
  • Internal components: As reinforcement layers.

2. Footwear industry

  • Shoe soles: For its resistance to wear and flex.
  • Shock absorbing inserts: Thanks to its elasticity.

3. Construction industry

  • Seals and joints: Used in applications requiring elasticity and weather resistance.
  • Coatings: For wear and impact resistant surfaces.

4. Industrial

  • Conveyor belts: For abrasion resistance.
  • Pipes and hoses: Used for non-oily fluids.
  • Machine rollers: For their ability to absorb shock.

5. Technical and consumables

  • Mats: SBR is used to produce non-slip and resistant mats.
  • Gaskets: For applications where there are no oils or solvents

Comparison with other elastomers

  • Compared to natural rubber (NR): SBR has better resistance to aging and abrasion, but lower elasticity and resistance to low temperatures.
  • Compared to NBR: SBR has poor resistance to oils, but is more versatile.
  • Compared to EPDM: EPDM offers greater resistance to weathering and heat.