Full definition
Hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber — a premium-grade elastomer created by catalytically hydrogenating the carbon-carbon double bonds in the NBR backbone, dramatically improving heat resistance, ozone stability, and aging performance while retaining excellent oil and fuel resistance. Hydrogenation level: 90-99% (higher = better heat/ozone resistance but harder to cure with sulfur). Temperature range: -30 to +150°C continuous (vs +100°C for standard NBR). Properties: hardness 50-90 Shore A, tensile 20-30 MPa (among the highest of all elastomers), outstanding abrasion resistance, excellent compression set at elevated temperature. ACN content: 17-50% (same trade-off as NBR). ASTM D2000: DH. Cure systems: peroxide (standard for high performance) or sulfur (for partially hydrogenated grades). Applications: automotive timing belt tooth compound (dominant application), serpentine belt backing, downhole oilfield seals, industrial shaft seals for high-temperature service, and high-performance hydraulic seals. Cost: 3-5x standard NBR, justified by 2-3x longer service life. Brands: Zetpol (Zeon), Therban (Lanxess).