Of all types of synthetic rubber, EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is the king of outdoors. If you happen to see a rubber article which is generally exposed to sunlight, it is very likely to be made of this material. Other elastomers like natural rubber and NBR are damaged by exposure to intense UV radiation, as well as ozone and rusting agents.

There is no doubt that EPDM is the best rubber for exteriors that you can find. But, what features add up to this fact? Although it is considered to be the perfect rubber for exteriors, this synthetic material has many other valuable traits.

Some properties of this versatile material are:

Water resistance: along with other NBR of synthetic rubber, EPDM materials are used as seals for water systems like pipes and taps. Many people also use whole sheets to cover flat roofs. This feature is especially useful when roofs and other exterior products are exposed to adverse and wet weather conditions like rain, sleet and snow.

Wide temperature range: EPDM compounds can keep their physical and chemical properties in a wide range of temperatures (between -40°C and 100°C).

Excellent combination of chemical resistances: it is an antifreeze material and tolerates acetone and alcohols well. However, it is not oil resistant and will react adversely to minor exposure. This is one of the few instances in which EPDM will fail.

Impressive combination of physical properties: for mechanical applications, it is generally a good idea to choose EPDM components. This elastomer is very compressible and will not lose elasticity with prolonged pressure. Also, it is less prone to be damaged by abrasion and tearing.

From the upper part of roofs to car interiors, the industry chooses EPDM for its resistance properties in exteriors, as well as for other properties which make it useful almost anywhere. It is not surprising that the use of this elastomer is growing fast due to its great versatility.

Fortunately, EPDM materials are available in large and small quantities, so they adapt to any production scale.