What is the difference between rubber and elastomer

This is where our expertise lies and has done since we first opened in In this section we will go into more detail about elastomers and in particular — silicone. The term, which is derived from elastic polymer , is often used interchangeably with the term rubber. Their primary uses are for seals, adhesives and molded flexible parts. Silicone Elastomer , or to give it its scientific name — Polysiloxane, is an amazing material. Good Insulator — Its closed cell properties make for effective insulation of electronic and electrical products in a variety of home and industrial applications.

Excellent Adherence — Elastomers can easily be installed next to various other materials, such as metal, hard plastic, or different kinds of rubber, with excellent adherence. Generally they are insoluble but will swell when exposed to certain solvents. They have lower creep resistance than thermoplastic materials. Some are even fire resistant which can add a measure of safety.

Environmental Durability — Thermosetting plastic elastomers remain stable at very high temperatures and resist harsh environments, and will keep their shape and colors, no matter the exposure to water or atmospheric gases. However, there is a need for more elastomers that perform at very low temperatures.

Most design processes can benefit from a better understanding of elastomeric materials. As always, ISM offers samples to our customers as a way to assist their testing and decision-making. These can be requested when browsing our catalog. What elastomeric properties were the most or least critical? Help us by telling others what you learned. Have any questions about elastomers and their use in flow control components? If so, send me an email - steven. You can also ask questions using the comments section below.

About the author Steven C. Williams, BS, is the technical writer and an inbound marketing specialist at Industrial Specialties Manufacturing ISM , an ISO supplier of miniature pneumatic, vacuum and fluid circuitry components to OEM's and distributors all over the world. He writes on technical topics related to miniature pneumatic and fluidic components as well as topics of general interest at ISM.

To clear up the confusion, think of natural rubber as the prototype of all elastomers, and elastomers as a subset of polymers. Elastomer materials are made from polymers joined by chemical bonds with a slightly cross-linked structure. Without the cross-linkages, the applied stress would result in permanent deformation. Because of it, the material is characterized by high elongation, flexibility and, as mentioned, elasticity. This helps prevent the material from cracking, snapping, or breaking when deformed.

As a polymer, elastomers are considered a pliable polymer, or plastic, material that includes synthetic and natural rubber. Elastomers are used in countless applications for vibration dampening and insulation — molding, gaskets, seals, shock absorbers, tires, skateboard wheels, soles of sneakers, and electronic cabling and wire insulation, and so on. Vulcanizing cross-links rubber molecules to enhance and improve its physical and mechanical properties.

The process not only allows the rubber to perform and function in wide temperature ranges, but improves its elasticity, hardness, increases its tensile strength, weather resistance, and viscosity.