Neoprene

Neoprene, or polychloroprene, is a family of synthetic rubbers produced by polymerizing chloroprene. It was developed in the 1930s by DuPont researchers and marketed under the name Neoprene. The polymer is valued for its chemical stability, resistance to ozone and weathering, and ability to retain elasticity over a wide temperature range. It also offers good resistance to oils and many solvents and can be formulated with fillers, reinforcements, and curing systems to yield a broad range of hardness and flexibility.

Neoprene is typically produced by emulsion or solution polymerization of chloroprene, followed by vulcanization (crosslinking) to improve elasticity and temperature resistance. It can be manufactured as solid rubber, sheets, or foamed material. Neoprene foam is a closed-cell foam used for insulation, padding, and cushioning, and can be produced with varying densities and cell structures.

Common applications include wetsuits and other diving gear, owing to flexibility at low temperatures and buoyancy, as well as seals, gaskets, hoses, belts, and vibration-damping components in automotive and industrial settings. It is also used in electrical insulation, medical devices, and various consumer products such as protective cases and accessories. Neoprene is valued for its balance of durability, flexibility, and resistance to oils and weathering.

Safety and environmental notes indicate that neoprene is not readily biodegradable and waste handling often involves recycling or energy recovery. Handling of chloroprene monomer and certain curing agents requires appropriate controls in manufacturing and processing.