Nitrile (NBR) and Neoprene® (CR) are elastomeric rubbers that provide good compression and tear resistance. Both elastomers also have the same thermal resistance. Their temperature range of operation ranges from -40° Cto + 130 ° C. They are characterized by high abrasion resistance (nitrile even at elevated temperatures). Both nitrile-butadiene (NBR) and chloroprene (CR) have many properties in common, but there are some differences. Find out what the differences between nitrile and neoprene are when it comes to seals and insulation.
Properties of NBR and CR rubber
Nitrile is an oil resistant rubber. It shows very good resistance to contact with engine oil and gasoline. It is resistant to solvents over a wide temperature range as well as petroleum based hydraulic fluids. It does not react with acids. NBR shows low resistance to weather conditions, sunlight and ozone. It is characterized by poor fire resistance. Nitrile rubber is not resistant to hydraulic fluids containing glycol.
Neoprene® is a chloroprene rubber that provides moderate resistance to oils and petroleum products. It is distinguished by high resistance to ozone, sunlight and weather conditions. CR is a fire retardant rubber that provides excellent resistance to fire spread.
Nitrile and Neoprene® are not resistant to aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and are not resistant to polar solvents, i.e. ketones.
Here you can buy plates of NBR Nitrile Butadiene Rubber and CR Chloroprene Rubber
Nitrile and Neoprene® – application
Nitrile can be used in hydraulics and pneumatics. Nitrile seals are also used in fuel systems and hydraulic lines. NBR rubber is resistant to oil and fuel, as well as abrasion and high temperature. Due to these properties, nitrile-butadiene rubber is also used in the processing industry. It can also be found in tires or inner tubes. Due to the fact that it is not resistant to flames, weather conditions, sunlight and ozone, it is recommended not to use it for sealing and insulation in places that require such properties.
Neoprene will find application in many industries (e.g. automotive). CR rubber is highly resistant to ozone, as well as to sunlight and weather conditions. Its advantage is fire resistance. It is used, among others in door or window seals, anti-vibration mountings and shock absorbers. Chloroprene rubber is also used in the manufacture of hose sheaths, rubber rings, with HVAC (sanitary engineering) equipment or electrical and electronic housings.
