What is Nitrile Rubber?

Nitrile rubber, also known as NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber), acrylonitrile rubber, and Buna-N, is a synthetic rubber consisting of acrylonitrile and butadiene. Initially developed in 1931, nitrile rubber has now become a cornerstone for various industries for its superior resistance against oils and fuels. This quality makes it suitable for applications in the automotive and industrial sectors, where Buna-N sheets are used in pads, seals, and gaskets. Nitrile rubber stands out due to its high resistance to a wide range of petroleum-based products, making it the go-to material for applications that involve oil and fuel exposure. Beyond this, NBR’s mechanical properties include good tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and ability to withstand heat which makes it suitable for environments where mechanical wear and tear is a concern.

One of the most notable applications of nitrile rubber is in the automotive industry, where it is widely used to manufacture hoses, gaskets, and seals. Nitrile rubber properties prevent fuel hoses from early life-cycle failures and handle vehicle operations smoothly. Additionally, nitrile sheet rubber gaskets are commonly used in engines and transmission systems, where they provide sealing against oils and fluids. Buna rubber sheet has the ability to withstand harsh conditions in chemically harsh environments such as heavy exposure to various fuels like Diesel.

Nitrile sheet rubber is also commonly found in industrial settings, particularly in manufacturing and machinery. Conveyor belts made from Buna rubber sheet are designed to resist wear and abrasion translating to durability in heavy-duty applications. Additionally, NBR is used to produce various types of seals and gaskets that prevent leaks in machinery and equipment. For example, nitrile rubber gasket is often found in pumps and valves, where it ensures that fluids remain contained, preventing equipment failure and environmental contamination.

Beyond these industries, nitrile rubber is utilized in everyday products that require oil and chemical resistance. For instance, commercial kitchen mats and flooring made from acrylonitrile rubber rolls are designed to provide a slip-resistant surface while withstanding exposure to oils and grease. These mats not only enhance safety in busy kitchen environments but also make cleaning easier, as they resist staining and degradation from food oils. Additionally, its durability under high foot traffic makes it ideal for long-term use in commercial settings. Our “Kitchen Mat” Grease-Resistant Rubber Mat is made with 100% nitrile rubber material and can withstand heavy-duty exposure to oils and grease.

Nitrile – Commercial Grade Black – 60A – 1″ x 36″

Nitrile – Commercial Grade Black – 60A – 1″ x 36″

• Able to resist ozone, making it good for outdoor use
• Our nitrile rubber sheets have a smooth finish
• Can operate in temperatures between -20° F and 170° F
• Our NBR material is available in custom gauges of up to 2” thick and 72” long

Superior Oil Resistance: Buna-N sheet rubber is very popular for use in applications that see a regular presence of natural and synthetic oils and greases. In fact, nitrile rubber was first developed for this purpose in the years after World War I. Over the years, it has gained a reputation for being the go-to elastomer for any application that involves oils. Whereas other rubber materials can be damaged by oils and greases, nitrile exhibits a durable longevity when put into contact with such substances. As a result, NBR material is perfect for commercial, industrial, and automotive uses.

Flexible Rubber: Our Buna-N sheet has a durometer rating of 55-65. It is a medium grade rating that means the elastomer features more flexibility and elasticity than 70 durometer rubbers. It is not the hardest rubber around, but it does have decent resistance to abrasions. However, its flexibility allows it to be better used as seals, gaskets, and bumpers for a large number of different commercial and industrial applications.

What Does Buna Stand For?

“Buna” is a term originating from the early days of synthetic rubber production in Germany. It combines two elements – “Bu”, which stands for butadiene, and “Na” referring to sodium, the catalyst used in the polymerization process. The term Buna was introduced by German chemists working for IG Farben, one of the largest chemical companies of the time.

The first Buna rubbers were developed back in the early 20th century as the need for alternatives to natural rubber became crucial. The supply of natural rubber materials became limited for Germany due to allied blockades, which cut off access to key rubber production regions across the globe. The necessity of a reliable substitute for natural rubber gave birth to Buna-N, emerging as one of the first successful synthetic rubbers.

Buna-N specifically refers to nitrile rubber, which exhibits strong resistance to oils, fuels, and various chemicals. This material is widely used to produce Buna rubber sheets, which are used in applications requiring reliable sealing and protection against harsh environments. Nitrile rubber properties, such as tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and moderate heat resistance, enhance its utility in manufacturing nitrile rubber gasket and O-rings.

In modern contexts, Buna-N sheets continue to be an essential product made from nitrile rubber. These sheets are available in various thicknesses and formats, including rubber rolls and rubber sheeting. For example, our Nitrile – Commercial Grade White – 60A is available and stocked in thickness gauges from 1/32 inches all the way up to 1 inches. You can also specify a specific length of up to 50 feet depending on thickness. The term ‘Buna’ has evolved, many people now refer to this material as nitrile rubber or NBR, but the term still remains a significant part of its terminology.

Nitrile – Commercial Grade White – 60A – 1/8″ x 36″

What are the Uses of Nitrile Rubber?

One of the most common uses of nitrile rubber is in the production of Buna rubber sheets and hoses, which are widely used in industries that deal with petroleum-based products. The Buna-N sheets are perfect for creating gaskets and seals that must withstand constant exposure to oils and fuels without degrading.

• Aerospace: Industries like automotive and aerospace often rely on nitrile sheet for sealing engines, fuel systems, and hydraulic equipment, where durable and oil-resistant material is critical for preventing leaks and ensuring the system’s longevity. In the aerospace sector, nitrile rubber is used mainly for its ability to maintain performance under extreme temperatures, making it suitable for high-altitude conditions.
• Manufacturing: In manufacturing, nitrile rubber plays a key role in protecting machinery and systems. For example, sheet rubber rolls are used for lining surfaces, providing an oil- and grease-resistant barrier in environments where exposure to chemicals is constant. Another interesting application of acrylonitrile rubber sheet is in chemical processing plants. These sheets provide resistance to oils and also safeguard the equipment from chemicals, alkalis, and acids used in various manufacturing processes. Nitrile sheet rubber materials are layered on equipment like tanks and pipes, where its strong chemical resistance and flexibility prevent leakage and corrosion in systems that handle fluids. In this setting, nitrile sheet materials maintain the structural integrity in potentially moderate environments.
• Oil and Gas: The oil and gas industry also employ rolls or rubber made from nitrile rubber in several operations. These rubber materials are used in oil rigs and refineries, where constant exposure to petroleum products is common. Beyond the obvious applications like gaskets and hoses, nitrile rubber is also found in specialized contaminants systems. The nitrile rubber properties that resist swelling and degradation under heavy oil exposure make it a perfect fit for these environments.
• Consumer Electronics: Acrylonitrile rubber has also found its footing in consumer electronics. In these applications, nitrile rubber provides a sealing solution for electronic enclosures, especially for devices that require protection from oils, solvents, and moistures. For example, smartphone cases, rugged laptops, and wearables rely heavily on Buna-N sheets to keep water and oil from penetrating the casing, enhancing the overall longevity and durability of the devices.

Be it oil refineries, automotive parts, manufacturing, or high-tech consumer gadgets, nitrile rubber offers an ever-expanding range of applications.

What Do Nitrile Rubber Sheets Protect Against?

Nitrile rubber sheets are a versatile and essential material for numerous industries due to their robust protective properties against oils, greases, and various chemicals. This makes them a key component in environments where exposure to harsh substances is unavoidable. Industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing heavily rely on nitrile rubber sheets to maintain the performance and longevity of their machinery and equipment. The primary advantage of these sheets is their outstanding resistance to oil, which allows them to be used in critical applications such as gaskets, seals, and protective covers, especially in environments dealing with petroleum-based products.

Nitrile rubber shows excellent resistance to specific fuels and oils, including diesel, gasoline, kerosene, and aviation fuels. Its ability to withstand exposure to these substances makes it particularly valuable in applications involving fuel systems. For example, in the automotive industry, nitrile rubber sheets are commonly used in engine gaskets and fuel system seals due to their ability to resist the deteriorating effects of diesel and gasoline. Similarly, in aerospace, nitrile rubber provides the perfect balance of flexibility and oil resistance required for seals in fuel systems and hydraulic systems, ensuring safety and reliability in aircraft.

In manufacturing, Buna rubber sheet serves as a protective barrier for machinery, safeguarding essential components from oil contamination, which can otherwise lead to mechanical failures. Beyond just oil resistance, nitrile rubber properties extend to offering protection against certain chemicals, particularly aliphatic hydrocarbons, which are typically found in fuels, lubricants, and cleaning solvents. This characteristic makes nitrile sheet a popular choice for industries where equipment comes into contact with such substances regularly. Oil refineries use Buna-N sheets to line equipment and piping systems that transport fuels and lubricants, protecting them from chemical damage. Chemical plants and automotive repair shops also make frequent use of rolled rubber products to protect surfaces and machinery from chemical spills and prolonged oil exposure.

One of the standout features of nitrile rubber is its impressive resistance to abrasion. This is particularly useful in dynamic and high-wear environments where machinery is constantly in motion. Nitrile rubber sheets are commonly used in conveyor belts, industrial hoses, and protective linings for heavy machinery. These sheets can endure substantial mechanical stress and continue to perform reliably without showing signs of wear. For industries that require both durability and flexibility, sheet rubber rolls made from nitrile are often chosen to protect moving parts from abrasion, while maintaining the needed flexibility to handle the demands of the environment.

Despite its many advantages, nitrile rubber is not without its limitations. It can be sensitive to environmental factors like ozone, ultraviolet light, and extreme temperatures, which can degrade its performance over time. Buna-N sheets, for example, may suffer from cracking and embrittlement if exposed to high levels of UV radiation or temperatures beyond their recommended range. Therefore, while nitrile rubber sheets offer excellent protection against oils and chemicals, it is crucial to consider the specific operating environment and any potential exposure to these harmful elements when selecting them for certain applications.

Nitrile – Commercial Grade White – 60A – 3/8″ x 36″

Nitrile – Commercial Grade White – 60A – 3/8″ x 36″

• Also available in black
• Excellent resistant to some oils and chemicals
• Can operate in temperatures between -20° F and 180° F
• Blend of nitrile, neoprene, and styrene butadiene rubbers

Non-Marking, Professional Aesthetic: While other rubbers often come in a standard black, we offer a white colored alternative. White nitrile is meant to give an application a sleek, modern, and professional appearance while functioning the way a proper nitrile elastomer is supposed to. Even more importantly, a white elastomer is a non-marking material that will not leave any marks or stains on the objects it comes into contact with. The white colored nitrile is suitable for use in cosmetics, grocery stores, and medical applications where white is better suited for aesthetics than black.

Oil-Resistant Rubber: Nitrile, or Buna-N rubber as it was originally known, was developed to be an oil-resistant alternative to natural rubber back in the years after World War I. Nitrile material is still used today whenever good oil and grease resistance is needed. White nitrile can resist organic and synthetic oils. While other types of elastomers can degrade when exposed to oils and greases, nitrile rubber can keep its form and integrity, making sure that it does its part to keep your application functioning.

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How Does Nitrile Rubber Compare to Other Elastomers?

Each elastomer, whether its chloroprene, SBR, EPDM, or silicone offer a unique combination of properties suited for different applications. Nitrile’s balance of durability, flexibility, and chemical resistance make it a popular choice in industries like automotive and manufacturing. However, when you go on floors with a new project, it is important to understand how it fares against other elastomers to determine the best material for your project.

Here’s How Nitrile Rolls of Rubber Compare to Other Elastomers:

• Nitrile Rubber vs Chloroprene: As far as oil-resistant elastomers go, NBR nitrile rubber and chloroprene (CR, neoprene) are the proud few in the crowd of rubber materials out there. No other elastomers can maintain their stability when exposed to oil, grease and fuel. In regards to other properties, CR outperforms NBR in nearly every way and boasts of a highly valued resistance to ozone. But, don’t count NBR out; it does have a lower compression set and, generally, a lower price tag.
• Nitrile Rubber vs SBR: SBR is the best synthetic elastomer for dynamic and abrasive conditions. It resists wear from abrasions, similar to natural rubber, and is one of the most affordable rubber options. While NBR has moderate abrasion resistance, it is also oil-resistant. If you need a rubber product that will be in contact with petroleum products and face constant abrasion, NBR (nitrile rubber) is the better choice over SBR.
• Nitrile Rubber vs EPDM: Of all synthetic and natural elastomers natural rubber, NBR, and SBR are the ones that would prefer to stay inside. When exposed to UV rays and ozone such elastomers dry out and become brittle, essentially making the material worthless. EPDM is one rubber that welcomes the sunshine and does not lose its integrity in outdoor conditions.
• Nitrile Rubber vs Silicone: Nitrile rubber excels at oil and grease resistance, making it a trusted elastomer for many industrial applications. Silicone rubber, on the other hand, is valued for its remarkable heat resistance. These properties make both materials popular for gaskets and seals. In food-grade uses, white nitrile and white silicone are frequent choices. However, silicone is preferred when the application involves temperatures surpassing 500°F.

Nitrile – Commercial Grade Black – 60A – 1/4″ x 36″

Nitrile – Commercial Grade Black – 60A – 1/4″ x 36″

• Able to resist ozone, making it good for outdoor use
• Our nitrile rubber sheets have a smooth finish
• Can operate in temperatures between -20° F and 170° F
• Our NBR material is available in custom gauges of up to 2” thick and 72” long

Superior Oil Resistance: Buna-N sheet rubber is very popular for use in applications that see a regular presence of natural and synthetic oils and greases. In fact, nitrile rubber was first developed for this purpose in the years after World War I. Over the years, it has gained a reputation for being the go-to elastomer for any application that involves oils. Whereas other rubber materials can be damaged by oils and greases, nitrile exhibits a durable longevity when put into contact with such substances. As a result, NBR material is perfect for commercial, industrial, and automotive uses.

Flexible Rubber: Our Buna-N sheet has a durometer rating of 55-65. It is a medium grade rating that means the elastomer features more flexibility and elasticity than 70 durometer rubbers. It is not the hardest rubber around, but it does have decent resistance to abrasions. However, its flexibility allows it to be better used as seals, gaskets, and bumpers for a large number of different commercial and industrial applications.

What are the Disadvantages of Nitrile Rubber?

Nitrile rubber, while widely used, has some notable drawbacks that need to be considered. Its sensitivity to extreme temperatures and poor resistance to ozone and UV radiation can make it less suitable for certain applications.

Versatility is one of the key qualities of rubber materials. Different types of rubber sheets provide different qualities that set them apart from the rest. NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) is one such dominant force in the field of synthetic rubber, with excellent resistance to fuels, oils, and greases. While NBR can hold its ground under certain conditions, it has its own set of limitations, like any other material. Someone looking for NBR rubber sheets for their project also needs to weigh in the disadvantages to determine whether it’s the best option for their specific project. Below are some cons of nitrile rubber you must know:

Temperature Sensitivity
One of the most notable drawbacks of butadiene nitrile rubber is its limited temperature range. There’s no questioning the fact that NBR performs well when it comes to moderately high temperatures, but prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can cause degradation in its performance. At high temperatures above 212°F, nitrile rubber starts to lose its mechanical properties such as elasticity and toughness, which leads to cracking and embrittlement. This is specifically problematic for industries which require materials to endure elevated temperatures, such as automotive engines and heavy machinery.

We’ve covered high temperatures, but how does Buna sheet rubber fare on the other end of the spectrum? Nitrile cannot endure very low temperatures either. Its performance degrades in colder temperatures, causing the sheet rubber to become brittle and prone to degradation. When exposed to temperatures below -20F, NBR rubber hardens, leading to reduced impact resistance and flexibility. This limitation makes NBR unsuitable for applications requiring flexibility in cold environments like cryogenic seals.

Ozone and UV Radiation
NBR is not friends with outdoor environments. It is vulnerable to harsh outdoor environments like ozone and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When exposed to such elements, Buna sheet rubber roll can experience surface cracks, embrittlement, and degradation. This weakness limits the use of Buna sheet in outdoor applications where the material would be exposed to sunlight and atmospheric ozone. These issues can be mitigated when nitrile rubber properties are protected by the use of protective layers or blended with other materials to improve its resistance to harsh environmental conditions.

In outdoor settings, prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause nitrile rubber to age prematurely, resulting in a noticeable loss of flexibility and resilience. Over time, this degradation can severely affect the material’s durability, making it prone to failure in critical applications like sealing or gaskets.

Nitrile – Commercial Grade Black – 60A – 1/2″ x 36″

Nitrile – Commercial Grade Black – 60A – 1/2″ x 36″

• Able to resist ozone, making it good for outdoor use
• Our nitrile rubber sheets have a smooth finish
• Can operate in temperatures between -20° F and 170° F
• Our NBR material is available in custom gauges of up to 2” thick and 72” long

Superior Oil Resistance: Buna-N sheet rubber is very popular for use in applications that see a regular presence of natural and synthetic oils and greases. In fact, nitrile rubber was first developed for this purpose in the years after World War I. Over the years, it has gained a reputation for being the go-to elastomer for any application that involves oils. Whereas other rubber materials can be damaged by oils and greases, nitrile exhibits a durable longevity when put into contact with such substances. As a result, NBR material is perfect for commercial, industrial, and automotive uses.

Flexible Rubber: Our Buna-N sheet has a durometer rating of 55-65. It is a medium grade rating that means the elastomer features more flexibility and elasticity than 70 durometer rubbers. It is not the hardest rubber around, but it does have decent resistance to abrasions. However, its flexibility allows it to be better used as seals, gaskets, and bumpers for a large number of different commercial and industrial applications.

FAQs

We’ve established that nitrile rubber has several advantages, like excellent resistance to oils, fuels, greases, and other petroleum-based substances. It also offers good tensile strength and abrasion resistance, making it durable for various applications. However, like other rubber materials, it raises some common questions regarding its specific properties and applications. Below are some frequently asked questions about nitrile rubber to help you out in your project:

1. Is Buna-N Compatible with Water?
Yes, Buna rubber sheet (Nitrile Rubber) is generally compatible with water. It can perform well in water applications such as gaskets and seals in plumbing systems. However, water pressure and temperature are important factors to consider before buying nitrile rubber. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures may reduce its lifespan.

2. Does Nitrile Rubber Dry Out?
Yes, nitrile rubber can dry out over time when exposed to harsh environmental conditions such as high temperatures, UV radiation, or ozone. Nitrile rubber absorbs oxygen, which leads to degradation over time. Additionally, it performs badly when exposed to general weathering.

3. Does Nitrile Rubber Melt?
Yes, nitrile rubber can melt when exposed to higher temperatures. It can degrade and lose its structural integrity when exposed to temperatures higher than 212°F. Strong rubber materials like silicone and EPDM are recommended for operations beyond this temperature.

4. Is Nitrile Rubber Hard or Soft?
Nitrile rubber can vary in hardness depending on how it is measured on the Shore Durometer scale. Our Nitrile – Commercial Grade Black – 60A comes with a durometer of 60 Shore A, +/-5, offering a moderate hardness range. This rating indicates superior flexibility and compressibility, making it suitable for applications where good sealing is important.

5. What are the Weaknesses of Nitrile Rubber?
Nitrile rubber can degrade in extreme temperatures. It can break down in high heat above 212°F. It is not great in outdoor settings as it can crack when exposed to sunlight and ozone. It doesn’t resist all solvents and strong acids such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and nitric acid.

6. What is a Nitrile Gasket Used For?
A nitrile gasket is used to create a seal in systems where resistance to oils, fuels, and other petroleum-based products is essential. Commonly found in automotive, aerospace, and industrial machinery, nitrile gaskets prevent leaks in engines, fuel systems, and hydraulic equipment. They are highly valued for their durability, oil resistance, and ability to perform well in environments with moderate heat and pressure.

We shed light on the frequently asked questions about the versatility and limitations of nitrile rubber, making it easier for you to select the right material for your specific project. Whether used in water-based applications, fuel systems, or high-compression environments, nitrile rubber is highly effective due to its oil resistance and durability. On the other hand, it is essential to consider factors like temperature limits, environmental exposure, and chemical compatibility for optimal performance. By understanding these properties, you can make informed decisions when choosing nitrile rubber products for your future projects!

Nitrile – Commercial Grade White – 60A – 3/16″ x 36″

Nitrile – Commercial Grade White – 60A – 3/16″ x 36″

• Also available in black
• Excellent resistant to some oils and chemicals
• Can operate in temperatures between -20° F and 180° F
• Blend of nitrile, neoprene, and styrene butadiene rubbers

Non-Marking, Professional Aesthetic: While other rubbers often come in a standard black, we offer a white colored alternative. White nitrile is meant to give an application a sleek, modern, and professional appearance while functioning the way a proper nitrile elastomer is supposed to. Even more importantly, a white elastomer is a non-marking material that will not leave any marks or stains on the objects it comes into contact with. The white colored nitrile is suitable for use in cosmetics, grocery stores, and medical applications where white is better suited for aesthetics than black.

Oil-Resistant Rubber: Nitrile, or Buna-N rubber as it was originally known, was developed to be an oil-resistant alternative to natural rubber back in the years after World War I. Nitrile material is still used today whenever good oil and grease resistance is needed. White nitrile can resist organic and synthetic oils. While other types of elastomers can degrade when exposed to oils and greases, nitrile rubber can keep its form and integrity, making sure that it does its part to keep your application functioning.

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