EPDM rubber

EPDM is an M-Class rubber under ASTM standard D-1418; the M class comprises elastomers with a saturated polyethylene chain (the M deriving from the more correct term polymethylene).

[4][5] The earlier relative of EPDM is EPR, ethylene propylene rubber (useful for high-voltage electrical cables), which is not derived from any diene precursors and can be crosslinked only using radical methods such as peroxides.

EPDMs are available in various molecular weights (indicated in Mooney viscosity ML(1+4) at 125 °C), varying levels of ethylene, third monomer, and oil content.

While EPDM has decent tensile strength, its flexibility makes it inappropriate for rigid parts such as gears, shafts, and structural beams.

It is used to create weatherstripping, seals on doors for refrigerators and freezers (where it also acts as an insulator), face masks for industrial respirators, glass run channels, radiators, garden and appliance hose (where it is used as a hose material as well as for gaskets), tubing, washers, O-rings, electrical insulation, and geomembranes.

Some vehicle manufacturers also recommend a light application of silicone dielectric grease to weatherstrip to reduce noise[citation needed].

This synthetic rubber membrane has also been used for pond liners and flat roofs because of its durability and low maintenance costs.

Colored EPDM granules are mixed with polyurethane binders and troweled or sprayed onto concrete, asphalt, screenings, interlocking brick, wood, etc., to create a non-slip, soft, porous safety surface for wet-deck areas such as pool decks.