NBR - Nitrile rubber

Nitrile rubber, also known as NBR (nitrile butadiene rubber), is a unique elastomer. It is a synthetic polymer produced by the copolymerization of acrylonitrile and butadiene. Nitrile rubber is characterized by its excellent oil resistance, chemical resistance and wear resistance. High acrylonitrile NBR grades have better oil and abrasion resistance while low acrylonitrile grades have better low temperature flexibility and resistance.

Nitrile rubber also has low gas permeability, especially those with high nitrile content but poor ozone and moderate heat resistance. To improve the physical properties, nitrile rubber is sometimes carboxylated (XNBR) or hydrogenated, which improves their temperature resistance. Many properties can be adjusted by varying the acrylonitrile content in nitrile rubber.

Nitrile rubber's ability to resist oils, greases and chemicals makes it a common choice in the oil and gas sector as well as the chemical industry. NBR is used to manufacture seals, gaskets and O-rings that need to be able to withstand aggressive chemicals and liquids. Its durability and flexibility also make it a good option for use in compressed air and hydraulic systems.

NBR is also used in the healthcare sector in the form of medical gloves and other protective clothing. As nitrile rubber has good resistance to blood, chemicals and body fluids, it contributes to maintaining hygiene and that it functions as protection for both healthcare staff and patients.
NBR - Nitril rubber, NBR material
Properties nitrile rubber
Properties

NBR - Nitrile rubber

Nitrile rubber is mainly used when oil and fuel resistance is needed.

If even better properties are desired in the area than what NBR can offer, the eye is often turned to its sibling HNBR - hydrogenated nitrile rubber.
  • Maximum temperature: 90°C
  • Minimum temperature: -30°C
  • Tear strength: 3
  • Compression set at -30 to +70°C: 3
  • Compression set at +70 to +150°C: 3
  • Attrition: 3
  • Oil and gasoline resistance: 3-4
  • Weather and ozone resistance: 1-2
  • Heat ageing: 3
  • Adhesion to metal: 4
  • Adhesion to textile: 3-4
​Grading
5 - Excellent / 4 - Very good / 3 - Good / 2 - Less good / 1 - Poor

Rubber products in NBR - Nitrile rubber

Nitrile rubber is used where excellent oil resistance is required such as sealing applications. Below you will find some typical examples of products made from nitrile rubber:

Seals and gaskets: Nitrile rubber is used for the manufacture of seals, O-rings and gaskets where there are requirements for chemical resistance and elasticity to be able to ensure a sealing and protective function in, for example, pipe systems, engines and fluid systems.

Hoses and pipes: Nitrile rubber is used in the manufacture of flexible hoses and pipes used for the transport of oils, fuels and chemicals.

Gloves and protective equipment: Nitrile rubber is used for the manufacture of protective gloves in the healthcare sector, laboratories, the food industry and the chemical industry. Nitrile gloves provide good protection against chemicals, oils and infectious agents while at the same time giving the user good conditions to be able to handle their tools and instruments.

Industrial coatings and isolation: Nitrile rubber is used for the manufacture of industrial coatings and insulation materials with high demands on wear resistance and durable surfaces that can resist oils and chemicals. NBR coatings are used in industries such as the automotive industry, machine manufacturing and the construction sector.

Sports and leisure products: Nitrile rubber is used for the manufacture of sports and leisure products such as diving equipment, life jackets and rubber mats. Its waterproof and durable properties make it a popular choice for products used in marine environments.
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