INTRODUCTION TO OUR CLOSED-CELL RUBBERS
The cellular foams manufactured by INTERFLEX FOAMS are initially produced in blocks through an expansion process.
Our closed-cell rubbers can be used for a variety of applications thanks to their cellular structure, particularly for insulation. The foam is water- and air-tight, and it resists various stresses and temperature fluctuations. Available in different densities, sizes, and polymers, which can be synthetic or natural.
With our diverse cutting machines, INTERFLEX FOAMS is able to provide rolls or sheets/plates.
Various adhesive backing solutions can be applied upon request.
Different expansion methods, with or without sulfur, can be used depending on the restrictions in your industry or in relation to the polymers we have selected, in order to fully optimize the potential of our foams!
FOAM EXCELLENCE, always!
We work daily to expand our product range and test our grades according to increasingly strict international standards, considering ecological challenges, carbon footprint, and the well-being of our operators.
EPDM
CR
EPDM – BLEND
EPDM
Closed-cell EPDM (Ethylene-Propylene-Diene Monomer) is a type of synthetic rubber foam characterized by its closed-cell structure, where the cells are fully closed and not interconnected.
These advantages make the closed-cell EPDMs in our range a popular choice for sealing, insulation, damping, and protection applications across various industries.
This structure offers several benefits, including:
01.
Water Resistance
The closed-cell structure prevents water and moisture penetration.
02.
Thermal Insulation
The air trapped inside the closed cells provides excellent thermal insulation, helping to maintain temperature stability and energy efficiency.
03.
Chemical Resistance
EPDM is highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, alkalis, and other corrosive substances, making it suitable for use in harsh chemical environments.
04.
UV and Ozone Resistance
EPDM offers exceptional resistance to UV radiation and ozone, preventing degradation and extending its lifespan when exposed to outdoor elements.
05.
Weather Resistance
The material retains its properties under various weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, ensuring durability and reliability.
06.
Elasticity and Flexibility
EPDM maintains its flexibility and elasticity over a wide temperature range, ensuring good sealing and damping effects even in cold weather.
07.
Noise and Vibration Damping
Its ability to absorb and dampen noise and vibrations makes it ideal for automotive, industrial, and construction applications that require noise reduction.
08.
Durability
Our EPDM products have a long service life due to their resistance to aging, wear, and tears, reducing the need for frequent replacements and maintenance.
09.
Non-toxic and Environmentally Friendly
EPDM is generally non-toxic and can be produced without harmful substances, making it a safer and more eco-friendly option.
10.
Versatility
The material can be easily molded, cut, and shaped to fit a wide range of applications, offering great versatility in design and manufacturing.
CR (Chloroprene Rubber)
Closed-cell CR (Chloroprene) rubber is a type of synthetic foam with a closed-cell structure, made from chloroprene (commonly known as Neoprene).
Closed-cell CR foams are typically self-extinguishing.
INTERFLEX FOAMS’ CR rubber foams also exhibit good resistance to various groups of chemicals, including hydrocarbons, oils, etc. They also show good resistance to aging and creep under compression.
Some of our CR solutions have direct UL approval and EN 45545-2 certification.
We can also blend our CR rubbers with other polymers to combine technical performance with cost efficiency.
EPDM – BLEND
At INTERFLEX FOAMS, our EPDM (Ethylene-Propylene-Diene Monomer) can be blended with other polymers for several reasons:
Improvement of Properties: Blending EPDM with other polymers can enhance specific properties such as tensile strength, tear resistance, or flexibility, depending on the application requirements.
Cost Optimization: By blending with less expensive polymers, we can balance performance and cost, making the material more economical for certain applications.
Ease of Processing: Blending with other polymers can improve processability during manufacturing, such as extrusion or molding, by adjusting viscosity or improving flow characteristics.
Customization: Blending allows us to customize material properties to meet specific performance criteria, such as weather resistance, UV stability, or chemical compatibility.
Compatibility: Some blends are formulated to enhance compatibility with additives or fillers, thus improving the overall performance of the material without compromising other properties.
In summary, blending EPDM with other polymers offers versatility in material design, enabling tailor-made solutions that meet the diverse needs of industries such as automotive, construction, and manufacturing.
At INTERFLEX FOAMS, you can primarily find « BLENDS » between:
EPDM – SBR
EPDM – CR
EPDM – EVA
NBR
EVA BLEND
BIO EPDM
NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber)
Closed-cell NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) is a type of synthetic rubber foam characterized by its closed-cell structure.
Properties and advantages of INTERFLEX FOAMS’ closed-cell NBR foams:
Oil, Fuel, and Grease Resistance: NBR is known for its excellent resistance to oils, fuels, and greases, making it ideal for applications where contact with hydrocarbons is frequent.
Chemical Resistance: NBR foams have good resistance to a wide range of chemicals, acids, and alkalis, increasing their durability in various industrial environments.
Moderate Thermal Insulation: The air trapped inside the closed cells provides moderate thermal insulation, making it suitable for temperature control applications.
Shock Absorption and Damping: Provides effective shock absorption and damping, making it ideal for protective seals and shock-resistant applications.
Weather Resistance: NBR foams can withstand exposure to the elements, UV radiation, and ozone, maintaining their properties over long periods outdoors.
EVA BLEND
An EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) closed-cell foam blend is a type of synthetic foam characterized by its closed-cell structure.
At INTERFLEX FOAMS, our closed-cell EVA rubber foams are versatile and find applications in various industries where cushioning, shock absorption, durability, water, and chemical resistance are key considerations.
Our EVA polymers also offer excellent resistance to tearing and abrasion.
Thanks to our unique formulations, we can reproduce the flexibility of EPDM closed-cell rubber foams using EVA foams, and offer a range of products available in different colors.
We also produce an EVA-EPDM blend for businesses seeking relatively dry materials that are easy to process and cut.
BIO EPDM
Closed-cell EPDM and recycled rubber foam
EPDM can be produced using various chemical processes that do not necessarily involve petroleum.
At INTERFLEX FOAMS, we use bio-based elements or other alternative raw materials from renewable sources to produce EPDM rubber foams.
Closed-cell recycled rubber foam refers to synthetic foam made from recycled rubber sources. It offers a sustainable alternative to traditional foam materials, providing similar benefits while reducing environmental impact by reusing rubber that would otherwise be discarded.
Today, we can offer materials made exclusively from recycled polymers.
IN SUMMARY…
In summary, although traditional methods involve petroleum-derived components, at INTERFLEX FOAMS, we also use alternative approaches to produce closed-cell EPDM rubber foams without depending on petroleum, aligning with environmental sustainability goals and reducing reliance on fossil fuels for a more sustainable world.