EPDMKautschuk

EPDMKautschuk, also known as EPDM rubber, is a synthetic elastomer based on ethylene, propylene and a non-conjugated diene monomer. It is produced by copolymerizing these components, with the diene providing crosslinkable sites for vulcanization. The resulting polymer offers excellent resistance to weathering, ozone and ultraviolet light, and it maintains flexibility at low temperatures. EPDM operates over a wide temperature range, typically roughly -50 to about 150 C depending on formulation, and it shows strong resistance to water, steam and many inorganic acids and bases. It also provides good electrical insulation and favorable dynamic properties for seals and gaskets.

EPDM is not well suited for exposure to most petroleum oils and fuels or many organic solvents; its resistance to mineral oils and aromatic hydrocarbons is limited. Curing is usually accomplished by sulfur vulcanization or peroxide systems. Peroxide curing generally yields improved heat aging and chemical resistance, while sulfur systems remain common for cost efficiency and certain dynamic properties. Compounding formulations use fillers such as carbon black or silica, antioxidants, processing aids and coagents to tailor hardness, cure rate and aging performance.

Common applications include automotive weatherstrips, door and window seals, radiator and heater hoses, roof membranes, gaskets and O-rings, electrical insulation and cable jackets, and various sealing profiles in construction and agricultural equipment. EPDM grades are selected to balance properties like heat resistance, flexibility at low temperatures and long-term weathering performance for specific service conditions.

Recyclability is limited because EPDM is a crosslinked elastomer, but devulcanization, crumb rubber processing and energy recovery provide avenues for reuse in certain contexts.