fluorocarbonrubber

Fluorocarbon rubber, often abbreviated as FKM, is a class of synthetic elastomers that are characterized by the presence of carbon-fluorine bonds in their polymer backbone. These bonds are exceptionally strong, contributing to the material's outstanding resistance to heat, chemicals, oils, and fuels. FKM is a type of fluoroelastomer, and its unique properties make it suitable for demanding applications where other rubbers would degrade.

The manufacturing of fluorocarbon rubber typically involves the copolymerization of monomers such as vinylidene fluoride (VDF), hexafluoropropylene (HFP), and tetrafluoroethylene (TFE). The specific composition of these monomers can be varied to tailor the properties of the final FKM product, allowing for different grades with varying degrees of chemical resistance and low-temperature flexibility. Vulcanization, a process that cross-links the polymer chains, is essential to achieve the elastic properties of FKM. Common curing agents include diamines, peroxides, and bisphenols.

Key properties of FKM rubber include its high temperature resistance, with continuous service temperatures often reaching 200°C (392°F) and intermittent exposure to higher temperatures possible. It exhibits excellent resistance to a wide range of aggressive chemicals, including acids, bases, hydrocarbons, and many solvents. Furthermore, FKM has low gas permeability and good resistance to ozone and weathering. However, it can be susceptible to degradation by certain amines, ketones, and esters. Due to its superior performance characteristics, fluorocarbon rubber is widely used in automotive seals and gaskets, aerospace components, industrial O-rings, and chemical processing equipment.