EPDM rubber is a type of synthetic rubber. It is extremely durable and flexible and therefore has a wide range of applications. In simple terms, pure rubber becomes brittle with temperature variable, wherein synthetic rubber (EPDM) remain flexible and withstand temperature variations for decades. EPDM is a copolymer with elastomeric properties, which means it is a polymer which is both viscous and elastic. If stretched, it will return to its original shape. Its two main components (ethylene and propylene) are both derived from oil and natural gas.
Natural Rubber is an elastic substance obtained from the latex sap of trees, especially those trees which belong to the genera Hevea and Ficus. natural rubber is an elastomer or an elastic hydrocarbon polymer that has been widely used in heavy duty applications such as tyres due to the excellent abrasion resistance.
Thermoplastic rubber is a relatively new class of polymer. It has the solubility and thermo plasticity of polystyrene, while at ambient temperatures it has the toughness and resilience of vulcanized natural rubber or polybutadiene. These compound combines the elasticity of the rubber with the versatility of plastic coloring properties.
Properties | Natural | EPDM | Silicon | TPR |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tensile strength | Over 3,000 | Over 3,000 | Over 1,500 | Over 3,000 |
Hardness range | 30 - 90 | 40 - 90 | 40 - 85 | 40 - 90 |
Tear resistance | Good | Good | Poor | Good |
Abrasion resistance | Excellent | Good | Poor | Good |
Dielectric strength | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Excellent |
Electrical insulation | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
Acid resistance | Fair | Good | Excellent | Good |
Resistance to water absorption | Very good | Good | Good | Good |
Resistance to oxidation | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
Resistance to ozone | Fair | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
UV resistance | Fair | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
Resistance to ozone | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
UV resistance | Poor | excellent | Excellent | Good |
Heat aging | Good | Excellent | Outstanding | Good |
Resistance to heat | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
Resistance to cold | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |