A Complete Guide to EPDM Rubber - Properties and Applications

Jun. 09, 2025

A Complete Guide to EPDM Rubber - Properties and Applications

Ethylene-propylene diene monomer (EPDM) is one of the most common and widely used man-made synthetic rubber materials. It is available as a solid or closed-cell sponge in a range of hardnesses and densities. It has an excellent resistance to weathering, ozone and chemicals.

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EPDM has taken its place as the preferred rubber compound for manufacturing rubber seals for almost every industry sector. With over 70% of the material used for manufacturing rubber products being synthetic, the largest proportion of this is EPDM. Its global success and mass production has resulted in an incredibly versatile and low cost compound suitable for almost any application.

This guide provides a background to the history of EPDM and explains the main advantages and disadvantages of using it to manufacture custom seals, trims and gaskets.

When the reliance on natural rubber exceeded supply, companies looked to develop synthetic alternatives. In the s, scientists at Exxon developed EPDM as a result of their work polymerising two petroleum-derived gases; ethylene and propylene. This process created ethylene propylene rubber which was highly suitable for outdoor sealing applications due to its excellent resistance to heat and weathering.

Today, the basic principles for manufacturing EPDM remain almost completely unchanged and follow the same stages first identified by Exxon. The rubber base material is created by combining ethylene and propylene. This compound then undergoes a chemical reaction known as polymerisation to turn the base material into an amorphous liquid. This process creates the EPDM rubber compound that can be used to create extruded profiles, moulded gaskets or flat sheets.

Extruding an EPDM seal works by pushing the rubber compound through an extrusion tool (known as a die). Together with pressure and temperature, the machine extrudes the required shape which is then cured and hardened using a vulcanising line, steam line, salt bath or autoclave cure. The compound can also be rolled and squashed to a required thickness using a calender roller to create large sheets of rubber suitable for cutting into narrower strips.

Although the raw EPDM rubber compound is initially semi-solid, it can be manufactured into both solid and expanded sponge rubber products. During the extrusion process, nucleating agents such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide are injected into the compound to create a cellular structure. By adjusting the gas injection rate, it is possible to achieve different densities depending on the level of firmness required. This process creates what is known as expanded EPDM, a compressible closed-cell sponge suitable for most sealing applications.

What's the Difference Between EPDM and Neoprene Rubber?

Synthetic rubbers come in many forms. Two of the most common for the automotive, HVAC and roofing industries are Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) and Neoprene. Both types of rubbers have many uses, but what is the difference between them?

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What is EPDM?

EPDM or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer is rubber made from the properties within its name: Ethylene, Propylene, Diene, and Monomers are all put together into a single bond structure, giving you EPDM rubber.

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EPDM is a less expensive type of rubber, but it’s resistant to heat, cold, ozone, water and weathering. These benefits, along with noise reduction, make it a great rubber for use as gaskets, seals, insulation, and many other uses in a variety of industries including powersports, industrial, automotive, construction and HVAC.

Though it may have resistant properties to heat, cold, weathering, ozone and water, it’s vulnerable to oil, gas, and hydrocarbon solvents. Meaning that if there’s any exposure to grease or oil, you may be in trouble.

What is Neoprene Rubber?

Neoprene is another form of rubber that’s a little higher in cost and includes a combination of carbon, hydrogen and chlorine polymers. Neoprene has many applications like diving suits, rubber gloves (replacing latex), and for matters where chemical and oil resistance are prevalent.

Neoprene’s most common uses are corrosion-resistant coatings, high-pressure adhesives, gaskets, belts, vibration mounts and weather-stripping materials.

Like EPDM, it’s alkali and acid resistant, but is still vulnerable to aromatic and oxygenated solvents. However, it has a higher resistance to corrosion and degradation.

What’s The Difference Between EPDM and Neoprene Rubber?

Both EPDM and Neoprene rubbers are good for general purpose applications, as they both can be molded and extruded as needed. EPDM functions better in higher temperatures, is steam and ozone resistant while neoprene has greater flame, oil and gas resistance.

In addition to function, the main difference between the two are cost. EPDM is the less expensive of the two. The additional flame resistant properties of Neoprene increase the cost.

Which is Better: EPDM or Neoprene Rubber?

So, if you’re asking yourself if EPDM or Neoprene is better, it’s all dependent on what you’re using it for.

If you need a less costly and noise-resistant rubber, then EPDM may be the best option for you. If you need a rubber that’s more resistant to chemicals with better thermal insulation, then Neoprene will work better.Not all applications are the same – so it stands to reason that not all materials are the best fit for every application. Knowing the right material to choose for your product is key to unlocking the performance you want. Contact us and speak with an engineer about your project at (612) 781-, or request a quote online. You will receive a prompt response.

Are you interested in learning more about Industrial EPDM Rubber Seals? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

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