fluororubber

Fluororubber is a class of synthetic rubbers that are engineered to resist high temperatures and aggressive chemicals. The presence of fluorine atoms within the polymer chain is what gives fluororubber its distinctive properties. These materials are typically colorless or light yellow and are known for their excellent thermal stability, chemical inertness, and resistance to fuels, oils, and solvents.

The most common types of fluororubber include fluoroelastomers (FKM), which are copolymers of vinylidene fluoride (VDF) and hexafluoropropylene (HFP), and perfluoroelastomers (FFKM), which have a fully fluorinated polymer backbone. FKMs offer a good balance of performance and cost, while FFKM provides superior chemical and thermal resistance, making them suitable for the most demanding applications.

Fluororubber finds widespread use in industries such as automotive, aerospace, chemical processing, and oil and gas. It is commonly employed in seals, gaskets, O-rings, hoses, and diaphragms where resistance to harsh environments is critical. Its ability to maintain its integrity under extreme conditions, such as high temperatures and exposure to corrosive substances, makes it a highly valued material for critical components. The manufacturing process involves polymerization of fluorinated monomers, followed by cross-linking to achieve the desired elastomeric properties.