Neoprene

Neoprene is the DuPont Performance Elastomers trade name for a family of synthetic insulation, and car fan belts.

History

Neoprene was invented by DuPont scientists after Dr. Elmer K. Bolton of chloroprene.

Neoprene (originally called duprene) was the first mass-produced synthetic rubber compound.

Applications

Its chemical inertness makes it well suited for industrial applications such as gaskets, hoses, and coatings. It can be used as a base for adhesives, noise isolation in power transformer installations, and as padding in external metal cases to protect the contents while allowing a snug fit. Neoprene is also used as a contrast in some jewelry designs. Its springy consistency makes it notoriously difficult to fold when in sheet form.

Neoprene is commonly used as a material for fly fishing waders, as it provides excellent insulation against cold. Neoprene waders are usually about 5 mm thick, and in the medium price range as compared to cheaper materials such as nylon and rubber. However, neoprene is less expensive than breathable fabrics.

For diving and exposure protection applications, the air spaces in the neoprene are filled with spandex into the neoprene for a greater flexibility.

Recently, neoprene has become a favorite material for lifestyle and other home accessories including laptop sleeves, iPod holders, remote controls, etc.

Also in recent years, Jug, an aftermarket inline skate liner manufacturer, has incorporated neoprene into the construction of some of their more popular product-lines, citing that neoprene adds reinforcement (ankle support) and guards against abrasions like few materials do. As a simple matter of durability and product lifespan, liners constructed with neoprene additives are typically more expensive than those which are not.

Musical instrument maker Yamaha has begun replacing corks not used for sealing (such as sealing the joints of a clarinet) with neoprene.

Precaution

Some people are allergic to neoprene while others can get dermatitis from vulcanize rubber into neoprene which can be left over after the manufacturing process.