Ethylene Propylene Diene Rubber (EPDM)
Properties and Applications
Ethylene propylene diene monomers (EPDM) are copolymers of
ethylene, propylene and small amounts of non-conjugated diene
monomers (3 - 9 percent) which provide cross-linking sites for
vulcanization. EPDMs have excellent heat, ozone, and weathering resistance. They also exhibit excellent electrical insulation,
good compression set and low temperature properties, but have only fair
mechanical properties. Their resistance to chemicals is generally
good. For example, EPDMS’s are resistant to many polar fluids, hot
water and steam up to 200°C (in the absence of air). However,
they have poor mineral oil and flame resistance.
The largest market for EPDMs is the automotive industry.
Typical applications include radiator and heater hoses, window and door seals, O-rings and gaskets, accumulator bladders, wire and cable connectors, and weather stripping.
Blends of EPDMs and other polyolefins (PP) are used for car bumpers, fender extensions, and rub strips.
EPDMs are also used in the building and construction industry for roofing and waterproofing such as bitumen modifications, facade and parapet sealants, expansion joints, and pool and tank liners.