EPDM rubber is produced by the copolymerisation of ethylene, propylene and a diene. The absence of double bonds in the main chain results in good oxygen, ozone and temperature resistance.
EPDM has very good ozone resistance, very good weathering resistance and low heat ageing. It is also resistant to temperatures of up to 150 °C and resistant to polar substances and steam. However, these compounds have little resistance to petrol, fuels and mineral oils. However, EPDM is used in particular for seals and hoses in washing machines because of its resistance to alkalis.
Thanks to its outstanding properties, EPDM has replaced the originally used natural rubber in many areas. In the automotive sector as well as in the construction industry, this type of rubber is the most frequently used material for seals.
EPDM vulcanisates are characterised by excellent chemical resistance to dilute acids, alcohol and hydraulic fluids such as brake fluid.
Hardness:
25 to 90 Shore A
Elongation at break:
150 to 800%
Maximum temperature:
+150° C
Minimum temperature:
-50°C
Electrical properties:
very good insulating properties with appropriate design of the mixture
Gas permeability:
high, similar to NR
Ageing and ozone resistance:
very good, even better than IIR
Chemical resistance:
above-average chemical resistance, but rather poor against mineral oil and grease resistance
In terms of quantity, EPDM is most widely used in the automotive industry, e.g. for sealing profiles for doors, windows and headlights, brake and coolant hoses.
EPDM is also used for seals and hoses in washing machines and dishwashers because of its good hot water resistance. In addition, EPDM has gained a high market share for building profiles and roofing membranes due to its good weather resistance.
