Synthetic rubbers are typically engineered to have very specific qualities mostly because, when they are made, certain functions are envisioned. After all, synthetic rubber products are man-made, produced to fulfill specific needs. But, there is a synthetic elastomer that is manufactured and used for its general-purpose qualities. Neoprene, also called chloroprene, possesses a combination of characteristics that makes it suitable for a multitude of applications. Neoprene is a mainstay material for products such as a neoprene seal, a neoprene squeegee, and custom neoprene gaskets—neoprene is an elastomer with good chemical- and ozone-resistance. Rolls and sheets of made of a neoprene blend or a 100%-neoprene composition are offered in many thicknesses and sizes. Using a thick or thin neoprene rubber sheet, neoprene manufacturers produce neoprene seals and gaskets, among a host of other products.
Is Neoprene Resistant to Gas?
(Tested Against Charcoal Lighter)
Is Neoprene Resistant to Oil
(Tested against XXD40)
What Is Neoprene Rubber Sheet?
Now, you may have a question: What is neoprene rubber sheet? A neoprene rubber sheet, or a chloroprene (CR) neoprene sheet, is one form of neoprene products that is used for applications such as flooring, lining, and gasketing. When compared with other elastomers—especially other synthetics—neoprene lacks a single, superlative quality that defines its usefulness. Instead, the strength and usefulness of neoprene comes from its balance of qualities. It performs moderately well in many physical and environmental conditions, whether they are indoor, outdoor, heavy-duty, or residential applications.
Here are some of the more notable properties of neoprene rubber:
1. Neoprene Compression Set: Neoprene’s low compression set is an essential characteristic of an effective neoprene gasket seal or a neoprene bumper. According to one authority, rubber’s compression set is the measure of its “ability to return to its original thickness after prolonged compressive stresses.” For applications that require a neoprene seal or other, similar uses of neoprene, a lower compression set is generally more ideal, since the product is better-suited for resisting deformation. A product with a higher compression set, on the other hand, is more likely to become permanently indented in response to compression. A low compression set ensures that a neoprene seal, gasket, or lining maintains its gas- and liquid-tight seal, preventing leakages from occurring for as long as possible.
Neoprene – Commercial Grade – 70A – 1/32″ x 36″
Neoprene – Commercial Grade – 70A – 1/32″ x 36″
- Industrial gasket applications
- Applications involving temperatures between -20° F and 170° F
- Applications that may involve the presence of moderate levels of oil or ozone or even chemicals
- Any task that requires a strong neoprene (durometer 65-75) that can endure the stress of heavy and repeated physical impacts
High Compressive Strength: Closed cell rubber is a bit different from its open cell counterpart in terms of compressive strength. While open cell sponge rubber can rebound back to its original shape very quickly, closed foam rubber sponge takes a bit longer to do so. This allows the closed cell EPDM sponge rubber to handle high- pressure applications at a better rate, making it more durable.
Perfect for the Outdoors: The excellent ability of this closed cell rubber to operate in the outdoors is all thanks to the compound of EPDM rubber in its structural makeup. It has an excellent level of resistant to both UV rays and ozone. Outdoor factors like UV and ozone may not damage a material immediately, but they can definitely degrade a material over time. The EPDM compound in this sponge rubber allows it to remain exposed to the elements for extended periods of time. This is the primary reason why EPDM material is a popular elastomer to use in applications such as window sealing on vehicles and homes.
Neoprene – Commercial Grade – 45A – 1/4″ x 36″
2. Neoprene Resistance to Abrasion: When applied as a seal, liner, or gasket, neoprene performs well due to its resistance to abrasions and its resilience. Abrasion-resistance refers to a polychloroprene rubber’s ability to withstand damage when in contact with a moving surface. A neoprene rubber sheet’s abrasion-resistance enhances the longevity of neoprene products such as a neoprene liner, seal, and gasket.
3. Neoprene UV-Resistance and Ozone-Resistance: As with many compounds, natural rubber is prone to damage resulting from UV-rays, ozone, and oxygen. However, many of the synthetic rubbers (including chloroprene rubber) possess considerable resistances to weathering. Rubbers that aren’t resistant to weathering tend to decay when confronted with abrasive outdoor conditions for prolonged periods of time. A neoprene rubber sheet, though, can withstand weathering, resisting cracking and other forms of damage.
Closed Cell Rubber – Neoprene – 39″ x 78″
Closed Cell Rubber – Neoprene – 39″ x 78″
- Durometer rating of 20-25 Shore C
- Has a high level of compression strength
- Preferred for use in some automotive and industrial settings
- Neoprene foam can operate in temperatures as low as -40° F and as high as +200° F
Oil Resistance: Neoprene rubber is widely used in tasks that see a moderate presence of oils and greases. It offers a good level of resistance to those substances. Other materials can be stained or damaged by oil, but neoprene can stand up to such corrosive elements. Neoprene still demonstrates this trait even when comes in cellular rubber form. Closed cell neoprene sponge rubber can handle light to moderate contact with oils and greases without suffering from any immediate damage to its structure. As a result, a gasket made from neoprene foam rubber will last for a much longer period of time.
Weathering Resistance: In addition to oils and greases, neoprene can also operate in the outdoors. It can resist the degrading effects of UV rays, ozone, and even moisture from rainfall. It is very strong when it comes to UV rays. UV rays can cause damage such as discoloration in some materials, but will have a very hard time doing so with this foam rubber material. A big benefit of having a closed cell sponge rubber in wet and moist conditions is that the closed cell structure will not soak up any of the moisture. Water will be prevented from seeping into the material and causing any damage.
Is Neoprene Resistant to Oil?
Does Vinegar Affect Neoprene?
2. Neoprene Resistance to Abrasion: When applied as a seal, liner, or gasket, neoprene performs well due to its resistance to abrasions and its resilience. Abrasion-resistance refers to a polychloroprene rubber’s ability to withstand damage when in contact with a moving surface. A neoprene rubber sheet’s abrasion-resistance enhances the longevity of neoprene products such as a neoprene liner, seal, and gasket.
3. Neoprene UV-Resistance and Ozone-Resistance: As with many compounds, natural rubber is prone to damage resulting from UV-rays, ozone, and oxygen. However, many of the synthetic rubbers (including chloroprene rubber) possess considerable resistances to weathering. Rubbers that aren’t resistant to weathering tend to decay when confronted with abrasive outdoor conditions for prolonged periods of time. A neoprene rubber sheet, though, can withstand weathering, resisting cracking and other forms of damage.
What Is Neoprene Rubber Sheet Used For?
A neoprene rubber sheet can be used for applications such as a neoprene rubber pad, neoprene rubber strips (adhesive-backed), and a neoprene gasket sheet. Neoprene material brings plenty of chemical and physical properties to the table, making neoprene applications widespread and reliable. A neoprene rubber sheet is often used for neoprene seals or a neoprene liner. In these applications, neoprene’s well-roundedness as a synthetic rubber makes it an unmatched material. After all, neoprene is known as the general-purpose synthetic rubber. This title is a well-earned one, as you’ll soon find out when you decide to purchase neoprene. The decision to buy neoprene is made even easier, now that you know what is neoprene rubber sheet used for. Neoprene is truly a remarkable material!
Closed Cell Rubber – Blend – 39″ x 78″
