Elastomer
An elastomer is a material resembling rubber, characterized by having the ability to resume its shape after being greatly deformed. They are natural or synthetic polymers. Their primary uses are for seals, adhesives and molded flexible parts.
Elastomers are usually thermosets (requiring vulcanization). The long polymer chains cross-link during curing and account for the flexible nature of the material. The molecular structure of elastomers can be imagined as a 'spaghetti and meatball' structure, with the meatballs signifying cross-links.
Elastomers may also be thermoplastic.
Examples of elastomers;
- Rubber
- Buna rubber
- Silicone RTV
- Viton®
- Neoprene
- Santoprene
- Fluorosilicone Rubber
- EPDM rubber
- Polyurethane rubber
- Nitril rubber
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