Elastomers resist the elements

For automotive applications requiring oil and solvent resistance, Zeon Chemicals has introduced a new low-temperature polyacrylate elastomer, Nipol AR12. Improvements in compression set, sealing force retention, and long-term physical property retention reportedly exceed those of traditional polyacrylates and ethylene acrylates. Tests show the elastomer retains sealing force in excess of 4000 hours in SF-105 synthetic oil while swelling less than 15 percent. Nipol is polymerized with curesite technology, and is targeted for car parts such as engine and transmission seals and gaskets. It costs $3.75/lb.

Also new from Zeon are two new heat- and oil-resistant thermoset elastomers. High-ACN Zeptol 1000L and 1020L are hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR) elastomers targeted for the automotive underhood and oil recovery markets, respectively. Zeptol 1000L, a low-viscosity, fully saturated HNBR, is designed for applications in automotive or diesel fuel systems such as fuel tank rollover grommets and fuel injector O rings. Company sources say this grade offers a cost-competitive alternative to nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) and some fluropolymers.

The slightly less saturated 1020L also can replace NBR, providing higher end-use part temperatures of up to 160C. Its intended use is for parts used in secondary and tertiary oil recovery.

Zeon Chemicals LP
Louisville, KY
Phone: (502) 775-2000
Fax: (502) 775-2055
www.zeonchemicals.com