What is EPDM
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a synthetic rubber made from a terpolymer of ethylene, propylene, and a small amount of a third monomer, usually a diene. Its main characteristics include superior resistance to oxidation, ozone, and erosion.
Belonging to the polyolefin family, EPDM has excellent vulcanization properties and the lowest specific gravity among all rubbers. It can absorb large amounts of fillers and oils without affecting its properties, allowing for the production of cost-effective rubber compounds.
EPDM Chemical and physical properties
Structure and Acid-Alkali Resistance
EPDM rubber consists of a terpolymer of ethylene, propylene, and a small amount of a third monomer (such as a diene), giving it excellent resistance to oxidation, ozone, and chemical corrosion. This rubber material performs exceptionally well in many industrial applications, particularly in high-concentration and high-temperature acidic and corrosive environments. For example, EPDM is commonly used to manufacture waterproof seals, window gaskets, automotive parts, industrial conveyor belts, and medical devices.
Mechanical and Thermal Properties
EPDM has a wide temperature range, typically between -50°C and 150°C. Its advantages include ease of processing, relatively low cost, ozone and chemical corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and good electrical insulation. However, EPDM performs poorly in high temperatures, oils, and hydrocarbon solvents and becomes stiff at low temperatures.
EPDM Electrical Insulation Properties
EPDM has good wear resistance and impact resistance, making it suitable for applications requiring high durability, such as sports equipment and industrial machinery parts. It is also an ideal material for manufacturing wire and cable sheathing.
Chemical resistance chart
» Meaning of symbol:
OK: Recommended. △: Must confirm if usable by testing in advanced. X: Not recommended.
» This chart only provides the result of a single chemical to material, if a client uses more than one kind of chemical at the same time, please choose material by experience.
» This chart is for reference only which is not applicable to all working environments. Please refer to design equipment according to practical experience.
| Category |
Name |
EPDM |
Organic acids
|
Acetic acid |
OK (20%) |
| Acetic acid, glacial |
OK |
| Acetic anhydride |
OK |
| Citric acid |
OK |
| Organic compound |
Acetaldehyde |
△ |
| Acetone |
OK |
| Methyl alcohol |
OK (<20˚C) |
| Aniline |
N/A |
| Benzaldehyde |
N/A |
| Benzene |
N/A |
| Benzyl alcohol |
△ |
| Benzyl chloride |
N/A |
| Corn oil |
N/A |
| Ethanol |
OK |
| Ethylene glycol |
OK |
| Fatty acid |
N/A |
| Formaldehyde |
△ (40%) |
| Formic acid |
OK |
| Hexane |
N/A |
| Lactic acid |
OK |
| Methanol |
OK |
| Paraffin oil |
X |
| Petroleum |
X |
| Phenol |
△ |
| Propane, liq |
X |
| Propanol |
OK (<60˚C) |
| Stearic acid |
X |
| Tannic acid |
X |
| Tartaric acid |
OK |
| Toluene |
X |
| Urea |
OK (<60˚C) |
| Inorganic compound |
Ammonia |
OK |
| Ammonium chloride |
OK |
| Ammonium hydroxide |
OK |
| Ammonium nitrate |
OK |
| Ammonium sulfate |
OK |
| Aqua regia |
X |
| Barium chloride |
OK |
| Barium hydroxide |
OK |
| Brine |
OK |
| Calcium Chloride |
OK |
| Calcium hydroxide |
OK |
| Carbonic acid |
OK |
| Chloric acid |
OK (<60˚C) |
| Chlorine |
X |
| Detergent |
OK |
| Hydrobromic acid |
OK (37% @ hot) |
| Hydrochloric acid |
OK (37%) |
| Hydrofluoric acid |
X |
| Hydrogen peroxide |
OK (30%) |
| Nitric acid |
X |
| Phosphoric acid |
OK (<60˚C) |
| Potassium hydroxide |
△ |
| Potassium nitrate |
OK |
| Potassium sulfate |
OK |
| Sodium carbonate |
OK (<60˚C) |
| Sodium hydroxide |
OK (50%) |
| Sodium nitrate |
OK (<60˚C) |
| Sulfuric acid |
X (Fuming) |
| Sulfur dioxide |
△ |