POLYCHLOROPRENE (Neoprene Rubber)

Polychloroprene is the oldest synthetic rubber. It is produced by the polymerization of 2-chloro-1,3-butadiene in a water emulsion with potassium sulfate as a catalyst:

The product is a random polymer that is vulcanized with sulfur or with metal oxides (zinc oxide, magnesium oxide etc.). Vulcanization with sulfur is very slow, and an accelerator is usually required.

Neoprene vulcanizates have a high tensile strength, excellent oil resistance (better than natural rubber), and heat resistance. Neoprene rubber could be used for tire production, but it is expensive. Major uses include cable coatings, mechanical goods, gaskets, conveyor belts, and cables.