Z2500 series - Closed-cell Neoprene

The Z2500 series are a range of closed-cell Neoprene materials which was the first mast produced synthetic rubber compound. Neoprene which is also known as Chloroprene, was invented by DuPont scientists in the early 1930’s and is now used in a wide range of demanding environments, such as wetsuits, electrical insulation and car fan belts. Its chemical inertness makes it well suited for industrial applications such as gaskets, hoses, and corrosion-resistant coatings. It can also be used for noise control and a base for adhesives. Neoprene is used for noise isolation and control in power transformer installations. Its springy consistency makes it notoriously difficult to fold when in sheet form. Neoprene can also be used as padding in external metal cases to protect the contents while allowing a snug fit.

Neoprene is also 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 nitrogen for its insulation value. Thick wet-suits made at the extreme end of their cold-water protection are usually made of 7 mm to 9mm thick neoprene. It should be noted that since neoprene contains many porous air-spaces, the material compresses the greater the depth it is exposed to. So a 7 mm neoprene wet suit offers much less exposure protection under one hundred feet of water than at the surface. A new advance in neoprene for wet-suits has been the "super-flex" variety which combines spandex into the neoprene for greater flexibility.

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

Available in block format (buns), our Neoprene range is manufactured in accordance to ASTM D1056 guidelines and is available in a density range of SCE41 (soft) to SCE43 (medium/firm). We also offer a flame retardant version to UL94 HF-1. Being a closed-cell material, it will not allow easy penetration of liquids or water into the material.

Typical Industry Applications and Characteristics include:

• Insulation
• Closure seals
• Wet Suits
• Balaclavas
• Lap Top Sleeves
• Gaskets
• Gloves
• Orthopedic Brace
• Automotive and oil seals
• Weather Stripping
• Vibration and Noise dampening
• Electronic equipment
• Ozone resistant
• Very good ageing properties
• Fishing Waders
• iPod Holders
• Heat Resistant
• Vent and Air Condition seals
• Petrol Resistant

Benefits & Features:

Characteristics common to all Zouch Converters closed-cell Neoprene sponge products include a wide range of split thicknesses with the ability to combine adhesives or fabrics to the surface. We can also supply in continuous rolls and sheets, die-cut pieces, kiss-cut pieces, laminated with adhesive or foils, water-jet cut for excellent accuracy and also strip cut. Our Z2500 range offer good dimensional stability, cushioning, and vibration dampening properties. Neoprene will continue to be one of the most important synthetic speciality elastomers because its balance of properties is unique.

Temperature Range:

If the products are not influenced mechanically, our neoprene products are resistant to very low and relatively high temperatures. Normal application temperatures range from -40°C to +80°C with a high intermittent range of +100°C.

Colours:

Black or Grey (FR grade only)

Cell Structure:

Closed-Cell

Special Features:

• Broad range of thickness
• Durable
• Does not become brittle or exhibit loss of properties over time.
• Moderate Oil and Fuel Resistance
• Good resistance to Formaldehyde – minor effect
• Low Flammability
• High Ozone and Weather resistance
• Good resistance towards chemicals
• Adhesion to many surfaces
• Good mechanical strength

Surface Texture

Available as skin/skin from block or cell/cell and skin/cell once split.

Certifications

Flammability to method FMVSS302 achieved as standard. The Grey FR version also meets UL94 HF-1 self extinguishing.

Tolerances

The thickness tolerances are dependent on product type, grade and nominal thickness. Please contact us for more details.

Adhesives

All our Neoprene sponges can be laminated or coated with a Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA). Depending on application, we offer either a general purpose rubber adhesive (permanent or peelable) on various substrates such as tissue, polyester or scrim, or very aggressive aqueous and solvent based acrylics that provide an excellent combination of tack and holding power and will bond quickly and efficiently to most surfaces that are kept clean, dry and free from contamination. Contact the sales department on +44(0)115 8407474 for more advice.

Fabrication Tip

Please remember that shrinkage is always a consideration with all cellular materials. It is therefore recommended that any grade of Neoprene chosen be tested in its application or undergo prototype testing.

Formats

In Sheets or continuous rolls at 1000mm wide. Standard block size is 1000mm x 2000mm x 50mm Thick for the regular version and 1000mm x 2000mm x 44mm Thick for the premium Grey FR version.