Introduction
The major monomer component in every type of Neoprene polychloroprene that is manufactured by Denka Performance Elastomer is chloroprene (2-chloro-1,3-butadiene). The monomer backbone structure of polychloroprene can be modified by copolymerizing chloroprene with sulfur, 2,3-dichloro-1,3-butadiene, or other monomers to yield a family of materials with a broad range of chemical and physical properties. By proper selection and formulation of these polymers, the compounder can achieve optimum performance for a given end-use.
Uses
Three general types of Neoprene are available for dry rubber applications: Neoprene G, W, and T types. These elastomers offer a broad range of physical properties and processing capabilities, so that users can formulate to specific requirements. Raw polymer and vulcanizate properties for each of the general types are displayed in the following table:
G-Types
| Grades | ML 1+4 at 100℃ | Crystallization | Features | Data Sheet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GNA M1 | 42–54 | Medium | Better raw polymer stability |  |
| GNA M2 | 47–59 | Medium | Better raw polymer stability | |
| GW | 37–49 | Slow | Balanced blend of G & W properties, non-peptizable | |
| GRT M1 | 34–46 | Slow | High crystallization resistance/tack | |
| GRT M2 | 40–52 | Slow | High crystallization resistance/tack | |
W-Types
| Grades | ML 1+4 at 100℃ | Crystallization | Features | Data Sheet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| W | 40–49 | Fast | General purpose | |
| W M1 | 34–41 | Fast | Low viscosity W | |
| WHV | 106–125 | Fast | High viscosity W | |
| WHV 100 | 90–110 | Fast | Lower viscosity W | |
| WB | 43–52 | Medium | Gel-containing, smooth processing | |
| WRT | 41–51 | Very Slow | Maximum crystallization resistance | |
| WD | 100–120 | Very Slow | High Viscosity WRT | |
T-Types
| Grades | ML 1+4 at 100℃ | Crystallization | Features | Data Sheet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TW | 42–52 | Fast | Smoother processing than W | |
| TW 100 | 82–99 | Fast | Higher viscosity TW | |
Compounders choose Denka™ Neoprene G types for applications where building tack is important in fabricating the final product and when the end-use involves severe flexing or other dynamic stresses, and minimum compression set is not required.
Neoprene G types are used when a compound requires high loadings with a minimum of plasticizer. Because G types break down of soften under shear during mixing, workable viscosities can be achieved.
When to Use W Types
Neoprene W types are chosen where service conditions call for polychloroprene with the best heat aging and compression set resistance. Neoprene W types frequently are used because of their combination of excellent storage stability, uniform processability, broad compounding latitude, and all-around good vulcanizate properties.
When to Use T Types
Neoprene T types typically are used in calendaring and extrusion applications. They frequently are used in the production of extruded profiles requiring low die swell, little distortion, and high green strength.
Characteristics
Neoprene is a multipurpose elastomer that has a balanced combination of properties. All types of Neoprene have these inherent characteristics:
- Resist degradation from sun, ozone, and weather,
- Perform well in contact with oils and many chemicals,
- Remain useful over a wide temperature range,
- Display outstanding physical toughness, and
- Are more resistant to burning than exclusively hydrocarbon rubbers.
Neoprene G, W, and T types are available in a number of grades. The table below can be used to evaluate qualitatively physical properties of Neoprene grades, including raw polymer, uncured compound, and vulcanizate properties.