FVMQ

FVMQ is an acronym for fluorinated vinyl methyl silicone, a class of fluorosilicone elastomers used where resistance to fuels, oils, and certain chemicals is required. The polymer combines a silicone (siloxane) backbone with fluorinated substituents and vinyl functional groups. The fluorinated groups improve chemical resistance to hydrocarbons and many solvents, providing better fuel and oil compatibility than standard VMQ silicone. FVMQ elastomers are produced in addition-cure or peroxide-cured formulations, with cure systems chosen to balance processability, mechanical properties, and thermal stability.

Key properties of FVMQ include excellent resistance to fuels and oils, good weathering and ozone resistance, and a broad operating temperature range. Continuous service temperatures commonly reach around 200–250°C for some grades, while low-temperature flexibility can extend to roughly -50 to -60°C. FVMQ typically offers good electrical insulation and low gas permeability, making it suitable for seals and gaskets exposed to harsh environments. However, FVMQ can exhibit higher compression set after aging and may have higher material costs and variable abrasion resistance compared with some other elastomers. Processing characteristics depend on the chosen cure system; addition-cure (Pt-catalyzed hydrosilylation) is common for high purity and clarity, while peroxide cure is another option.

Applications for FVMQ include automotive fuel-system seals (O-rings, gaskets, hoses), hydraulic seals, aerospace components, and electronics where fuel or solvent exposure is a concern. It is distinct from fluorocarbon elastomers (FKM) and standard VMQ silicone, though it shares the silicone backbone with enhanced chemical resistance due to fluorination.