neopreenrubbers

Neoprene rubber, chemically known as polychloroprene, is a family of synthetic elastomers developed in the 1930s and marketed under the Neoprene brand by DuPont. It is produced by the polymerization of chloroprene and is available as solid rubber, foam, or film. Neoprene is valued for its combination of chemical stability, ozone- and weather-resistance, and flexibility over a broad temperature range, along with moderate resistance to oils and many solvents.

Performance varies with formulation. Standard neoprene offers good elasticity and abrasion resistance, while closed-cell foam neoprene provides cushioning and thermal insulation for wetsuits, gloves, and industrial padding. Neoprene can be cured by sulfur or peroxide systems and is commonly blended with other rubber types, such as EPDM or nitrile, to tailor properties. It is compatible with conventional rubber processing techniques and can be molded, extruded, or laminated.

Applications span seals and gaskets, hoses, belts and vibration mounts, electrical insulation, wetsuits and other surf and diving gear, medical devices, and marine equipment. Limitations include reduced resistance to certain solvents and oils compared with nitrile, potential UV aging in unprotected grades, and lower high-temperature performance relative to silicones or fluorinated elastomers. Neoprene remains widely used due to its balanced properties and moderate cost, though newer elastomer options may be preferred for demanding hot or solvent-exposure environments.