8 - Performance characteristics of polymers - Elastomers

Question 1

Natural rubber

Answer 1

High tensile strength, good hardness, tough, electrical resistance, cold resistance

Tyres, tubes, hoses, footwear

Question 2

Butadiene rubber (BR)

Answer 2

Tough. Good wear resistance against friction, good thermal resistance against friction. Electrical insulator

Tyres, shoe soles, hoses, conveyor belts

Question 3

Neoprene

Answer 3

Good thermal resistance, tough, good chemical and weather resistance, good abrasion resistance, electrical insulator

Wetsuits, laptop cases

Question 4

Silicone

Answer 4

Good flexibility, even at low temperatures. Good thermal resistance, good weather resistance, good lubricating qualities, electrical insulator. Poor abrasion resistance.

Ice cube trays, baking trays/ cupcake trays, seals, machinery lubricant, tubing (medical), prosthetics (medical).