Neoprene (polychloroprene) was first developed in the 1930s as an oil-resistant substitute for natural latex rubber and was the first commercially available synthetic elastomer. Because of its strong physical properties, it is widely used in manufacturing and R&D facilities worldwide.
Neoprene:
- offers a high level of protection from oxidizing agents, alcohols, oils, fuels, alkalines, benzene, ethanol, hexane, isopropanol, and various acids;
- does not degrade in the presence of sun and/or ozone;
- offers strong resistance to physical failures (cuts, runs, etc.);
- has achieved worldwide ISO 9000 registration;
- is flame-resistant and maintains physical integrity in high temperatures;
- is often black in color.