Polychloroprene or chloroprene rubber (CR) is a synthetic diene-based elastomer. It is also called Neoprene® as a registered trademark of DuPont Performance Elastomers. CR has a perfect balance of mechanical properties and fatigue resistance which is second only to natural rubber. It also has superior oil, chemical and heat resistance. It is widely used in general engineering applications. The typical working temperature range is between -35℃ and 100℃.
Neoprene is produced by polymerizing chloroprene in an emulsion, or 2-chlorobutadiene that is made by chlorinating butadiene or isoprene. The polymerization is initiated using potassium persulfate. To crosslink the individua polymer strands, bifunctional nucleophiles, metal oxides (e.g. zinc oxide), and thioureas are used.
1. Chemical processing industry:
Used as gaskets, cable jackets, tubing, seals, O-rings, tire sidewalls, and gasoline hoses
2. Adhesive:
Raw material for adhesives which can be both -solvent based as well as water based
3. Latex industry:
Gloves, molded foam, improvement of bitumen
4. Other applications:
Electrical insulation, coatings as a basic resin, and weather-resistant items like wet suits and orthopedic braces
