EPDM - Ethylene propylene rubber

Ethylene propylene rubber, also known as EPDM rubber, is a synthetic polymer used in several different applications. EPDM is an abbreviation that stands for ethylene propendiene monomer which is the main monomer used in the manufacture of EPDM rubber.

EPDM rubber is known for its excellent properties when it comes to weather resistance and chemical resistance. It has a high resistance to ozone, UV radiation, heat and cold which makes it ideal for outdoor applications. The rubber's good aging resistance means that it can maintain its mechanical properties and chemical resistance for a long time. Because of this, the material is a good choice when looking for a reliable material with a long service life. EPDM rubber is therefore often commonly used in applications and environments where precisely resistance to aging is an important factor, for example in roof coverings and waterproof membranes.

The ethylene propylene rubber has good resistance to a number of different chemicals and solvents, which means that it is also often used in the chemical industry. The material's low permeability is also a factor that makes it a suitable material to use in these industries.

In addition to the above, EPDM rubber also has good electrical insulation, which has resulted in it being used in the electronics industry as well. Its high dielectric strength and resistance to electric current make it a popular material for seals, gaskets and insulators in electrical and electronic components.
EPDM - Ethylene Propylene rubber, EPDM material
Properties ethylene propylene rubber
Properties

EPDM - Ethylene propylene rubber

EPDM is often the material chosen to replace NR or SBR with when higher demands are placed on weather and ozone resistance as well as better thermal aging properties.
  • Maximum temperature: 120°C
  • Minimum temperature: -35°C
  • Tear strength: 3
  • Compression set at -30 to +70°C: 3
  • Compression set at +70 to +150°C: 2-3
  • Attrition: 3
  • Oil and gasoline resistance: 1
  • Weather and ozone resistance: 5
  • Heat ageing: 3-4
  • Adhesion to metal: 3
  • Adhesion to textile: 3
​Grading
5 - Excellent / 4 - Very good / 3 - Good / 2 - Less good / 1 - Poor

Rubber products in EPDM - Ethylene propylene rubber

Below you will find some examples of products and applications where EPDM rubber is commonly used:

Seals and gaskets: EPDM rubber is used for the manufacture of seals and gaskets. Its excellent resistance to external environmental influences makes it a popular choice for creating leak protection and seals in automotive, plumbing and construction applications.

Rubber mats and floor coverings: EPDM rubber is used for the manufacture of rubber mats and floor coverings. Its wear resistance and weather resistance are well suited to creating safe and durable floors and floor coverings.

Automotive components: The automotive industry is the largest market for EPDM. EPDM is used for the manufacture of various vehicle components such as seals, gaskets, profiles and protective strips. Here, varying weather conditions and temperatures as well as the use of chemicals for cleaning are common, and EPDM rubber is then a good alternative. In addition, mixtures of EPDM and other polymers (PP) are used for bumpers and exterior moldings.

Building and construction details: EPDM is used for the manufacture of various building and construction details. In the construction sector, EPDM rubber is often used for roof and waterproofing, such as roof tiles, rubber sheeting, sealing joints and sealing strips.
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