Full definition
The two most common decision in industrial rubber material selection. Neoprene (CR) advantages: moderate oil and fuel resistance (EPDM has none — swells and degrades in hydrocarbon oils), inherent flame retardancy (self-extinguishing, EPDM burns without FR additives), and better adhesion (base for contact cements). EPDM advantages: superior weather, ozone, and UV resistance (essentially permanent outdoor exposure), better hot water and steam resistance (up to 150°C vs 100°C), better polar chemical resistance (acids, alkalis, ketones), wider temperature range (-50 to +150°C vs -35 to +100°C), better compression set (longer-lasting seals), and 20-40% lower cost. Both provide: good ozone resistance (but EPDM is better), adequate tensile/elongation, and good electrical insulation. Decision rule: if mineral oil, grease, or flame resistance is needed → neoprene. If water, steam, weathering, or polar chemicals dominate → EPDM. For outdoor applications with no oil → EPDM is almost always better and cheaper. For environments with both oil and weather exposure → CR, or consider NBR (oil) with EPDM cover (weather). Per ASTM D2000 compatibility charts.