Sulfur modified polychloroprene rubber for nitrosamine-free applications
Chloroprene rubber (CR) is typically a homopolymer of 2-chloro-1,3-butadiene (chloroprene), and in some cases a copolymer of chloroprene and 2,3-dichloro-1,3-butadiene. It is produced on an industrial scale by free radical, emulsion polymerization. CR has an unsaturated polymer backbone and contains a large amount of chlorine. The high chlorine content increases the oxidative stability of the unsaturation in the polymer backbone and results in good resistance to weathering (UV and ozone) and heat aging. Moreover, the high chlorine content offers a moderate resistance to polar and non-polar media. The stereoregular microstructure of CR results in a tendency to crystallize, especially when strained, thus providing good green strength similar to that of natural rubber (NR). CR offers a unique combination of mechanical properties, such as very good resistance to tear, abrasion, flex fatigue, dynamic deformation and low heat buildup. CR applications include hoses, cables, seals, axle boots, bridge pads, air springs, industrial belts and wiper blades. Baypren is the trade name of Arlanxeo’s CR products.