Santoprene – 60A – Block Design x 24″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/32″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/16″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/8″ x 36″
Santoprene™ Rubber Sheets
Table of Contents:
1. What are Thermoplastics?
2. What is Santoprene™?
3. What is Santoprene™ Rubber Good For?
5. Santoprene™ in Industrial Applications
6. Santoprene™ For Medical/Food Industry uses
7. Is Santoprene™ Better Than EPDM?
8. What is (RoHS) Compliance?
9. Rubber-Cal Santoprene™ Rubber Sheet Characteristics
What are Thermoplastics?
Thermoplastics are a type of plastic material that becomes soft and moldable when heated and hardens back upon cooling. This process of molding is not final, meaning it is reversible and allows thermoplastics to be reshaped and reused without altering their chemical properties. Thermoplastics are composed of polymer chains held together by weak intermolecular forces. These forces weaken when heat is applied, allowing the material to soften and mold into different shapes. When cooled, the molecular forces again gain strength, solidifying the material back into a stable shape. Take a moment to observe your surroundings, and you’ll notice that thermoplastics are very commonly present in ordinary objects such as food containers, water bottles, mobile phone cases, car bumpers, and medical devices like syringes and IV bags. Thermoplastics are chosen for these products because of their exceptional versatility in properties like flexibility, durability, lightweight nature, and the ability to be easily molded into complex shapes. Their affordability and ability to be produced in a wide range of colors and sizes make them highly appealing for mass production. Additionally, their resistance to impact and chemicals makes them suitable for both everyday items like food containers and critical applications like medical devices.
A unique advantage of thermoplastics is their environmental friendliness, as recycled materials can be broken down again and reused without losing their fundamental properties. Unlike many materials like hard plastics that degrade during recycling, thermoplastics maintain their chemical structure. This reduces waste and supports sustainable manufacturing practices, making them a more eco-conscious choice in industries striving to minimize their environmental footprint. They can be formulated to exhibit a wide range of properties, such as flexibility or high-impact resistance. They are also ideal for mass production methods such as extrusion or injection molding, a manufacturing process where molten thermoplastic material is injected into a mold under high pressure, cooled down, and then solidified to create precise shapes. Ultimately, thermoplastics also offer excellent resistance to impact, chemicals, and environmental conditions.
Santoprene – 60A – 1/32″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/32″ x 36″
- Low compression and tension set
- Also available in a blocked surface texture option
- Thermoplastic material stocked in popular gauges
- Santoprene rubber is polyolefin based and completely recyclable
A High Performance Elastomer: Santoprene rubber features excellent physical and chemical characteristics. This is a quality synthetic rubber sheet that combines the performance characteristics vulcanized rubber, such as superior flexibility and low compression set, with the processing ease of thermoplastics. This thermoplastic elastomer has a durometer rating of 55-65, meaning that it is able to handle physical indentation fairly well while being flexible and pliable enough to use in various settings.
Great for Automotive Use: One simply has to consider the performance virtues of this thermoplastic material when considering a type of sheet rubber for use in automotive applications. It is already a physically durable material to begin with. However, this high quality synthetic rubber also features other characteristics that make it ideal for the harsh requirements of automotive use. Firstly, Santoprene sheets exhibit a great resistance to the oils and greases commonly found in automotive settings. Secondly, it has the ability to perform in temperatures that go up to 300° F. With these great characteristics, Santoprene rubber is meant for use in the auto industry.
Santoprene – 60A – Block Design x 24″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/32″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/16″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/8″ x 36″
What is Santoprene™?
Now that we’ve covered the basics of thermoplastics, let’s dive into the specifics of Santoprene™ rubber materials. The development of Santoprene™ sheets was driven by the growing demand for materials that combined the durability and flexibility of rubber with the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of plastics. At the time, industries like automotive and consumer goods were seeking cost-effective alternatives to traditional rubber that could be produced more efficiently without compromising performance. Santoprene™ was first developed in 1977 by Monsanto Company, a renowned agrochemical and biotechnology corporation known for its contribution to agricultural and material sciences. This innovation addressed the need for a versatile material that could withstand harsh environments while streamlining production processes, marking a significant step forward in material science.
Santoprene™ has a rich history of changing ownership, beginning its journey under Monsanto Company. ExxonMobil originally acquired the Santoprene brand in 1997 when it purchased Monsanto’s chemical business, including the Santoprene thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) product line. This marked the beginning of ExxonMobil’s ownership of the Santoprene™ trademark. Recently, in 2021, ExxonMobil sold the Santoprene™ business to Celanese Corporation for $1.15 billion as part of a strategic restructuring. By acquiring Santoprene™, Celanese aimed to enhance its portfolio of engineered materials, strengthening its position in the advanced polymer market. The move also aligned with recent industry trends favoring lightweight, durable, and recyclable materials, particularly in automotive applications where reducing vehicle weight is critical for improving fuel efficiency and meeting sustainability goals. While its journey through various ownerships showcases its market appeal, the real story lies in the remarkable blend of materials that define Santoprene™.
It is a trademarked material made from a blend of EPDM rubber (ethylene propylene diene monomer) and polypropylene. The EPDM component contributes elasticity, resilience, and outdoor durability, while the polypropylene provides thermoplasticity, allowing the material to be molded and reprocessed like plastic. This unique blend creates a material that combines the flexibility and advantages of synthetic rubbers with the ease of manufacturing associated with plastics, making it a popular choice. Due to this unique combination of materials, Santoprene™ doesn’t just fit neatly into one category– it bridges the gap between synthetic rubber and thermoplastic materials, offering both flexibility and reusability.
Santoprene™ is typically classified as a synthetic rubber due to its elastomeric qualities, including flexibility, resistance to deformation, and exceptional performance under stress. However, it sets itself apart from traditional rubbers by its ability to be melted and reshaped multiple times, a feature more commonly associated with plastics. This dual characteristic earns it the classification of a thermoplastic elastomer, combining the best of both worlds. It shares many of the essential synthetic rubber properties, making it a versatile choice for demanding applications. These include high resistance to heat, UV rays, and chemicals, along with impressive flexibility and durability across a broad range of temperatures. In addition, Santoprene’s excellent weatherability makes it a top performer in outdoor and harsh environments. One of the primary synthetic rubber advantages of Santoprene™ is its consistency and ability to be customized for specific needs, which is often not achievable with natural rubber. Compared to traditional rubbers, Santoprene™ and other synthetic rubbers offer improved performance and adaptability, making them invaluable across industries like automotive, construction, and electronics.
Santoprene – 60A – 1/16″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/16″ x 36″
- Low compression and tension set
- Also available in a blocked surface texture option
- Thermoplastic material stocked in popular gauges
- Santoprene rubber is polyolefin based and completely recyclable
A High Performance Elastomer: Santoprene rubber features excellent physical and chemical characteristics. This is a quality synthetic rubber sheet that combines the performance characteristics vulcanized rubber, such as superior flexibility and low compression set, with the processing ease of thermoplastics. This thermoplastic elastomer has a durometer rating of 55-65, meaning that it is able to handle physical indentation fairly well while being flexible and pliable enough to use in various settings.
Great for Automotive Use: One simply has to consider the performance virtues of this thermoplastic material when considering a type of sheet rubber for use in automotive applications. It is already a physically durable material to begin with. However, this high quality synthetic rubber also features other characteristics that make it ideal for the harsh requirements of automotive use. Firstly, Santoprene sheets exhibit a great resistance to the oils and greases commonly found in automotive settings. Secondly, it has the ability to perform in temperatures that go up to 300° F. With these great characteristics, Santoprene rubber is meant for use in the auto industry.
Santoprene – 60A – Block Design x 24″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/32″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/16″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/8″ x 36″
What Applications is Santoprene™ Rubber Good For?
Santoprene™ is a highly versatile synthetic rubber that combines the best features of both rubber and plastic, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. Thanks to its unique composition blended from EPDM rubber and polypropylene, Santoprene™ is known for its remarkable synthetic rubber properties, such as flexibility, durability, and excellent performance under stress. This makes it suitable for use in demanding environments across various industries.
Automotive Applications
One of the most prominent uses of Santoprene™ rolled rubber is in the automotive sector. The material’s high durability and ability to withstand harsh conditions make it perfect for automotive components such as door seals and gaskets. Santoprene™ sheets are resistant to oils and greases commonly found in automotive settings, ensuring long-term reliability. Moreover, the material can perform in high temperatures, up to 300°F, making it suitable for seals, gaskets, and weather stripping in vehicles. Synthetic rubber manufacturers favor Santoprene™ for its ability to maintain shape and performance even in extreme conditions, a key synthetic rubber advantage over traditional materials.
Outdoor and Weather-Resistant Uses
Santoprene™ is also an excellent choice for outdoor use. Due to its resistance to UV rays, ozone, and harsh weather conditions, this synthetic elastomer is ideal for products exposed to the elements. Unlike many other rubbers that degrade under UV exposure, Santoprene™ remains flexible and durable, making it suitable for outdoor seals, gaskets, and weatherproofing materials. This quality makes it a top choice for applications in industries such as construction and outdoor equipment. Thanks to its ability to resist both water and chemical degradation, Santoprene™ maintains its properties over time, making it perfect for long-lasting applications in harsh outdoor conditions. Its reliable performance ensures minimal maintenance, even when exposed to extreme weather.
Consumer Goods and Electronics
Santoprene™’s flexibility and resilience make it an excellent material for various consumer goods. It is used in products like electronic enclosures, phone cases, and ergonomic handles, where both comfort and durability are essential. The synthetic rubber advantages of Santoprene™ include its ability to resist chemicals and wear, which is particularly useful for products that see frequent use or come into contact with oils and solvents. Additionally, it can retain its shape and flexibility over time, making it an ideal choice for products that require longevity and resistance to deformation. This ensures that items like phone cases and ergonomic handles maintain their performance and appearance even after prolonged use.
Santoprene – 60A – 1/32″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/16″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/8″ x 36″
Paddings, Seals, O-Rings, and Gaskets
Is Santoprene™ a Plastic or a Rubber?
Santoprene™ is a unique material that often raises debates about its classification as either plastic or rubber. To answer the question straight, it is a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) that combines the properties of both plastics and rubbers. Specifically, Santoprene™ rubber material is a synthetic elastomer that bridges the gap between the two distinctive materials, offering strength and flexibility. It is a high-performance elastomer that behaves like rubber in its flexibility and resilience while offering the manufacturing convenience of plastics. Although not purely rubber, it functions similarly in many applications, providing excellent strength and elasticity. As a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), Santoprene™ combines the durability and versatility of plastics with the physical and functional qualities of rubber. It can be molded like plastic while still delivering the softness and stretch often associated with rubber. But you may be wondering, what exactly are thermoplastics?
Santoprene – 60A – Block Design x 24″
Santoprene – 60A – Block Design x 24″
- Low compression and tension set
- Also available in a blocked surface texture option
- Also available with a smooth surface texture
- Standard rolls of Santoprene sheet available in 24” and 36” width options and lengths of up to 50ft
- Thanks to its polyolefin base, Santoprene elastomer is recyclable despite being a synthetic rubber material
Block-Patterned Surface Texture: The distinguishing feature about this Santoprene rubber sheet is its surface texture. Unlike the standard smooth surface texture of most other elastomers, this sheet of thermoplastic rubber is manufactured with a block surface pattern. All across its body are tiny blocks. These mainly serve an aesthetic function for application where appearances are important. However, they do provide for a better level of grip so as to reduce the chances of it slipping out of place.
Excellent Temperature Range: Silicone often tends to be the first rubber that comes to mind when people are looking for a high-temp elastomer. However, Santoprene rubber should also be considered. This synthetic rubber material has an excellent working temperature range. It can endure temperatures that go as low as -74° F and can equally function in conditions that reach as high as 300° F. This excellent feature allows the rubber to be used in various temperature intensive applications in the automotive, electrical, and industrial fields.
Santoprene Industrial Applications
In industrial settings, synthetic rubbers like Santoprene™ are often used for fuel system seals in automotive applications, gaskets, and hoses in chemical processing equipment, where their chemical resistance, high-temperature tolerance, and durability are critical. The material’s ability to perform under mechanical stress and resist abrasion makes it ideal for heavy-duty machinery and equipment, ensuring longevity and reliability in environments that demand robust materials. Its ability to withstand extreme temperatures without losing its structural integrity further enhances its suitability for outdoor use. Additionally, Santoprene™ sheeting offers long-lasting performance, reducing the need for frequent replacements, which is particularly valuable in demanding environments where reliability is critical. Santoprene™’s ability to resist chemical degradation makes it a reliable choice for use in environments where exposure to oils, solvents, and acids is common. It also offers exceptional low-temperature flexibility, which makes it suitable for use in cold storage and refrigeration applications.
Santoprene – 60A – 1/8″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/8″ x 36″
- Slow burn rate
- Low compression and tension set
- Also available in a blocked surface texture option
- Thermoplastic material stocked in popular gauges
A High Performance Elastomer: Santoprene rubber features excellent physical and chemical characteristics. This is a quality synthetic rubber sheet that combines the performance characteristics vulcanized rubber, such as superior flexibility and low compression set, with the processing ease of thermoplastics. This thermoplastic elastomer has a durometer rating of 55-65, meaning that it is able to handle physical indentation fairly well while being flexible and pliable enough to use in various settings.
Great for Automotive Use: One simply has to consider the performance virtues of this thermoplastic material when considering a type of sheet rubber for use in automotive applications. It is already a physically durable material to begin with. However, this high quality synthetic rubber also features other characteristics that make it ideal for the harsh requirements of automotive use. Firstly, Santoprene sheets exhibit a great resistance to the oils and greases commonly found in automotive settings. Secondly, it has the ability to perform in temperatures that go up to 300° F. With these great characteristics, Santoprene rubber is meant for use in the auto industry.
Santoprene – 60A – Block Design x 24″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/32″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/16″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/8″ x 36″
Santoprene Medical/Food Industry Uses
Santoprene™ is also utilized in medical and food-grade applications. Thanks to its non-toxic nature and ease of sterilization, Santoprene™ is used in medical seals, food containers, and lab equipment. Its synthetic rubber properties make it safe for contact with food and medical substances, while its flexibility ensures the reliability of seals and gaskets in various devices. Santoprene™ sheet rubber rolls also adapt well to complex shapes, enabling the creation of highly functional components for diverse medical and food applications. This makes Santoprene™ an ideal choice for industries where hygiene, safety, and performance are critical, including the production of medical devices and food processing equipment.
Its combination of synthetic rubber properties, high resilience, and temperature tolerance, as well as its ability to be reshaped and reused, makes it a go-to material in industries like automotive, construction, consumer goods, electronics, and more. The synthetic rubber advantages of Santoprene™, particularly its weatherability and chemical resistance, give it a competitive edge over traditional rubbers, enabling it to excel in both indoor and outdoor applications.
Santoprene – 60A – 1/16″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/16″ x 36″
- Low compression and tension set
- Also available in a blocked surface texture option
- Thermoplastic material stocked in popular gauges
- Santoprene rubber is polyolefin based and completely recyclable
A High Performance Elastomer: Santoprene rubber features excellent physical and chemical characteristics. This is a quality synthetic rubber sheet that combines the performance characteristics vulcanized rubber, such as superior flexibility and low compression set, with the processing ease of thermoplastics. This thermoplastic elastomer has a durometer rating of 55-65, meaning that it is able to handle physical indentation fairly well while being flexible and pliable enough to use in various settings.
Great for Automotive Use: One simply has to consider the performance virtues of this thermoplastic material when considering a type of sheet rubber for use in automotive applications. It is already a physically durable material to begin with. However, this high quality synthetic rubber also features other characteristics that make it ideal for the harsh requirements of automotive use. Firstly, Santoprene sheets exhibit a great resistance to the oils and greases commonly found in automotive settings. Secondly, it has the ability to perform in temperatures that go up to 300° F. With these great characteristics, Santoprene rubber is meant for use in the auto industry.
Santoprene – 60A – Block Design x 24″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/32″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/16″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/8″ x 36″
Is Santoprene™ Better Than EPDM?
When comparing Santoprene™ vs EPDM synthetic rubbers, both materials bring unique qualities to the table that make them suitable for various applications. However, Santoprene™ outshines EPDM in specific areas such as higher temperature tolerance, greater flexibility under mechanical stress, and its ability to be reprocessed due to its thermoplastic nature, making it particularly advantageous for applications in automotive, medical, and consumer goods industries where durability, resilience, and ease of manufacturing are key. While both are types of synthetic rubbers, they differ in key areas such as temperature tolerance, flexibility, and chemical resistance, making them ideal for different needs. Ultimately, the choice between Santoprene™ vs EPDM depends on the specific requirements of the application, with Santoprene™ excelling in industries where flexibility, temperature resistance, and reusability are crucial.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is one of the most well-known synthetic rubbers recognized for its impressive resistance to heat, UV rays, ozone, and weathering. EPDM is commonly used in automotive, roofing, and outdoor applications where the material is exposed to harsh environments. The synthetic rubber properties of EPDM allow it to perform reliably within a temperature range of -40°F to 212°F, making it perfect for seals, gaskets, and hoses in applications that require stability under extreme conditions.
On the other hand, Santoprene™ is a thermoplastic elastomer made by blending EPDM and polypropylene. This combination imparts synthetic rubbers with exceptional flexibility, durability, and ease of molding. Unlike traditional synthetic rubbers, Santoprene™ can be reshaped and reprocessed multiple times, making it a favored choice for molding processes like injection molding. Rubber-Cal’s Santoprene™ – 60A rubber sheets offer a broader continuous temperature range of -50°F to 275°F and can handle intermittent temperatures up to -74°F to 300°F, making it ideal for applications where temperatures fluctuate more drastically.
Santoprene™ provides distinct synthetic rubber advantages in comparison to EPDM, especially in areas that require higher processing flexibility. Santoprene™ can withstand a wider range of temperatures, making it suitable for high- and low-temperature environments. This makes it more versatile for industries such as automotive, electronics, and medical, where parts need to perform reliably across varying conditions. Another key benefit of synthetic rubbers like Santoprene™ is their ability to maintain chemical resistance. Santoprene™ excels in environments where exposure to oils, greases, and chemicals is common, which can degrade many other synthetic rubbers. This makes it a superior choice for components that need long-lasting durability and performance under harsh chemical conditions.
While EPDM is a solid choice for outdoor and weather-resistant applications, Santoprene™ stands out for its versatility, moldability, and superior temperature resistance. The synthetic rubber properties of Santoprene™ allow it to perform better in applications that demand precise shaping and resistance to a broader range of conditions, especially in industries requiring high flexibility and durability. For those looking for a synthetic rubber that combines performance and ease of processing, Santoprene™ is often the ideal choice.
Santoprene – 60A – 1/32″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/32″ x 36″
- Low compression and tension set
- Also available in a blocked surface texture option
- Thermoplastic material stocked in popular gauges
- Santoprene rubber is polyolefin based and completely recyclable
A High Performance Elastomer: Santoprene rubber features excellent physical and chemical characteristics. This is a quality synthetic rubber sheet that combines the performance characteristics vulcanized rubber, such as superior flexibility and low compression set, with the processing ease of thermoplastics. This thermoplastic elastomer has a durometer rating of 55-65, meaning that it is able to handle physical indentation fairly well while being flexible and pliable enough to use in various settings.
Great for Automotive Use: One simply has to consider the performance virtues of this thermoplastic material when considering a type of sheet rubber for use in automotive applications. It is already a physically durable material to begin with. However, this high quality synthetic rubber also features other characteristics that make it ideal for the harsh requirements of automotive use. Firstly, Santoprene sheets exhibit a great resistance to the oils and greases commonly found in automotive settings. Secondly, it has the ability to perform in temperatures that go up to 300° F. With these great characteristics, Santoprene rubber is meant for use in the auto industry.
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What is (RoHS) Compliance?
Rubber-Cal’s Santoprene™ sheet rubber rolls strictly adhere to Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) compliance, which refers to adherence to a European Union (EU) directive aimed at prohibiting the use of specific hazardous materials in electrical and electronic products. The RoHS Directive, officially known as Directive 2011/65/EU and later updated with Directive 2015/863, limits the presence of certain substances that pose environmental and health risks when improperly disposed of or recycled. The RoHS Directive is one of the most stringent regulations, requiring manufacturers to eliminate or reduce hazardous materials like lead, mercury, cadmium, and certain flame retardants in electrical and electronic products, ensuring safety for both consumers and the planet. Diving in deeper, the substances banned under RoHS include the following–
Lead (Pb): A common component in solder and electronics, lead is restricted under RoHS due to its neurotoxic properties, posing serious risks to children and contributing to environmental pollution.
Mercury (Hg): Typically found in lighting and switches, mercury is strictly regulated due to its extreme toxicity, which can harm the nervous system and accumulate in ecosystems.
Cadmium (Cd): Widely used in batteries and coatings, cadmium faces restrictions due to its carcinogenic qualities and potential hazards to soil and water resources.
Hexavalent Chromium (Cr6+): Used as an anti-corrosive in metal plating, hexavalent chromium is limited because of its toxic and cancer-causing effects on both humans and the environment.
Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBBs): Formerly employed as flame retardants in plastics, PBBs are restricted due to their ability to bioaccumulate and disrupt endocrine systems in living organisms.
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs): This group of flame retardants is regulated for their potential to hinder human development and their persistence in the environment.
Phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, and DIBP): Included in the 2015 RoHS update, these plasticizers are restricted because of their endocrine-disrupting effects and potential risks to reproductive health. RoHS compliance is highly relevant to Santoprene™, particularly for industries that require environmentally friendly and safe materials in their products. Santoprene™, a thermoplastic elastomer combining EPDM rubber and polypropylene, is widely used in applications such as automotive parts, consumer goods, medical devices, and electrical components. Many of these applications fall within the scope of the RoHS directive, which regulates hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. Rubber-Cal’s Santoprene™ rolls of rubber adhere to RoHS, ensuring that the materials used are safe and environmentally responsible.
Santoprene – 60A – 1/32″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/16″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/8″ x 36″
Santoprene – 60A – 1/8″ x 36″
- Slow burn rate
- Low compression and tension set
- Also available in a blocked surface texture option
- Thermoplastic material stocked in popular gauges
A High Performance Elastomer: Santoprene rubber features excellent physical and chemical characteristics. This is a quality synthetic rubber sheet that combines the performance characteristics vulcanized rubber, such as superior flexibility and low compression set, with the processing ease of thermoplastics. This thermoplastic elastomer has a durometer rating of 55-65, meaning that it is able to handle physical indentation fairly well while being flexible and pliable enough to use in various settings.
Great for Automotive Use: One simply has to consider the performance virtues of this thermoplastic material when considering a type of sheet rubber for use in automotive applications. It is already a physically durable material to begin with. However, this high quality synthetic rubber also features other characteristics that make it ideal for the harsh requirements of automotive use. Firstly, Santoprene sheets exhibit a great resistance to the oils and greases commonly found in automotive settings. Secondly, it has the ability to perform in temperatures that go up to 300° F. With these great characteristics, Santoprene rubber is meant for use in the auto industry.
Santoprene – 60A – 1/8″ x 36″
Rubber-Cal Santoprene™ Rubber Sheet Characteristics
Designed to meet the needs of demanding applications, Rubber-Cal’s Santoprene™ rubber sheeting offers the best of both rubber and plastic properties, making it a versatile material across industries. Santoprene™ synthetic rubber is made of a unique blend of EPDM rubber and polypropylene, combining elasticity and thermoplasticity for versatile applications.
One of Santoprene™’s standout features is its slow burn rate, meeting the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 302, a regulation set by the US government to ensure that materials used in vehicles, particularly in the interior, do not contribute excessively to fire hazards. This standard tests the flammability of materials used in car seats, upholstery, and other interior components. Santoprene™ meets this safety standard even at thicknesses as low as 0.040”. This characteristic makes it a safe option for applications like automotive interiors, where fire resistance is critical. Additionally, Santoprene™ sheet rubber roll’s low compression and tension set ensures it maintains its shape and elasticity under continuous stress, making it a reliable choice for seals, gaskets, and other components subjected to constant pressure or deformation. Furthermore, Santoprene™ meets many ASTM specifications, including those for automotive applications, and has been used by leading automotive brands. ASTM International is a globally recognized organization that sets rigorous standards for materials, ensuring consistent quality and performance. This demonstrates the material’s proven performance and reliability in high-demand industries, further cementing its reputation as a high-quality, versatile choice.
From a flexibility perspective, Santoprene™ has a durometer rating of 55-65 Shore A, placing it in the medium-hardness category. A durometer measures material hardness on a standardized scale. The Shore A scale is used for flexible materials like rubber, where higher numbers indicate greater hardness. Available in both smooth and block designs, our Santoprene™ rubber sheet meets a wide range of performance needs.
Smooth Design
Santoprene™ in smooth design is an excellent choice for applications where a uniform surface is essential for optimal performance. The Santoprene – 60A Smooth Sheet provides a consistent and seamless surface ideal for gaskets, seals, and other applications that require precision. Its smooth texture helps minimize the risk of contamination, which is especially important in industries like food processing, medical devices, and laboratory equipment. The material remains flexible and durable under extreme conditions, such as exposure to heat, UV rays, and chemicals. This makes it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor applications. The ease of customization allows for the creation of specific shapes and sizes, ensuring the smooth Santoprene™ can meet a wide range of requirements, all while providing long-lasting performance.
Block Design
Santoprene™ in block design is perfect for applications requiring thicker, more rigid material. The Santoprene – 60A – Block Design is available in a variety of sizes, providing a solid, durable material that can be easily cut and shaped for custom uses. This design is particularly advantageous in mechanical applications where strength and durability are paramount, such as heavy-duty seals and industrial gaskets. The block form offers enhanced resistance to wear and tear, making it suitable for high-impact environments like automotive and construction. Its ability to resist UV exposure, ozone, and extreme temperatures further strengthens its reliability in demanding applications. With its superior toughness, the block design ensures the longevity and functionality of parts exposed to harsh conditions.
Santoprene™ rubber rolls are available in various gauges, including 1/32”, 1/16”, 1/8”, and 1/4”, with widths of 36 inches for smooth finishes and 24 inches for block designs. Rubber roll lengths can go up to 50 feet, allowing customization for different project needs. The material also comes in smooth or blocked surface textures, offering both aesthetic and functional versatility. With its slow burn rate, excellent durability, temperature resilience, and recyclability, Santoprene™ is a versatile and dependable choice for industries such as automotive, construction, and electronics. These attributes ensure it meets the rigorous demands of modern applications while contributing to sustainability. It is a groundbreaking material that combines the best properties of plastic and rubber, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of industries. Its thermoplastic elastomer nature allows for ease of processing, reshaping, and recycling while maintaining the durability, flexibility, and resistance associated with synthetic rubbers. From automotive and construction to medical and consumer goods, Santoprene™ proves its worth by offering superior performance in demanding environments. Its RoHS compliance and eco-friendly features make it a sustainable choice for modern applications, further solidifying its place as a go-to material in industries seeking high performance and sustainability.
Santoprene™ is a trademark of Celanese Corporation. All rights reserved.
Santoprene – 60A – Block Design x 24″
Santoprene – 60A – Block Design x 24″
- Low compression and tension set
- Also available in a blocked surface texture option
- Also available with a smooth surface texture
- Standard rolls of Santoprene sheet available in 24” and 36” width options and lengths of up to 50ft
- Thanks to its polyolefin base, Santoprene elastomer is recyclable despite being a synthetic rubber material
Block-Patterned Surface Texture: The distinguishing feature about this Santoprene rubber sheet is its surface texture. Unlike the standard smooth surface texture of most other elastomers, this sheet of thermoplastic rubber is manufactured with a block surface pattern. All across its body are tiny blocks. These mainly serve an aesthetic function for application where appearances are important. However, they do provide for a better level of grip so as to reduce the chances of it slipping out of place.
Excellent Temperature Range: Silicone often tends to be the first rubber that comes to mind when people are looking for a high-temp elastomer. However, Santoprene rubber should also be considered. This synthetic rubber material has an excellent working temperature range. It can endure temperatures that go as low as -74° F and can equally function in conditions that reach as high as 300° F. This excellent feature allows the rubber to be used in various temperature intensive applications in the automotive, electrical, and industrial fields.