Independent research report highlights the continuing evolution of fluorosilicone rubber (FSR) technology, and compares new materials with conventional FKM compounds.

Dow Corning has published independent research entitled 'FSRs in Extreme Applications', which highlights the continuing evolution of fluorosilicone rubber (FSR) technology, describing laboratory results comparing the performance of Silastic brand LS 5-2060 and LS-2860 FSR from Dow Corning against conventional FKM compounds. In addition, the research outlines the opportunities these FSR materials represent for more cost-effective, high-performance elastomer applications that require superior chemical, fuel, and oil resistance; good abrasion resistance; and excellent performance at extreme temperatures. FSRs in Extreme Applications alerts designers and OEM engineers of new chemical and compounding advances for fluorosilicone materials that could help usher in higher performance and more cost-effective solutions.

The published research summarizes conclusions derived from laboratory tests sponsored by Dow Corning and conducted in 2003 by Rapra Technology, an independent plastics and rubber testing company located in Shawbury, United Kingdom (www.rapra.net).

'The results of these tests could augur a paradigm shift for FSRs, demonstrating enhanced performance and lower price points,' said Martin Rowlands, Engineered Elastomer Industry, Science and Technology Global Director, Dow Corning.

'These new materials could potentially begin to supplant hydrogenated nitrile rubber (HNBR), carboxylated nitrile rubber (XNBR), urethane, acrylic rubber (ACM), ethylene acrylic rubber (AEM), and FKM materials in extreme applications.' As proof of this new paradigm, Dow Corning's research results details the comparative performance of two FSR compounds tested against three FKM-based compounds.

Some examples of what Rapra Technology's tests demonstrated include: * The tear strength at 200 deg C (392 deg F) of the two FSR compounds tested was significantly higher than the FKM compounds; * The elongation at break for the FSR compounds at 200 deg C was significantly better than any of the FKM compounds evaluated; * The two FSR compounds exhibited tensile strength values at 200 deg C, similar to those of FKM compounds; * FSR compounds generally had a wider operating temperature range compared to FKM compounds, due to their lower glass transition temperatures; and * With better tear strength performance and with similar tensile strength values, FSR elastomers compared favorably with FKM materials for high-temperature applications (up to 200 deg C).

For more than 40 years, FSRs have delivered excellent fuel resistance and performance in both low- and high-temperature conditions.

Dow Corning developed an advanced compounding expertise that offers a new family of high-value, specific compounds.

This innovation has improved FSRs' historically excellent balance of fuel and oil resistance and good mechanical properties over a wide range of temperatures.

Dow Corning's publication also summarizes the company's unique range of services in base formulation technology and compounding expertise.

These value-added services enable Dow Corning to meet specific customer needs while delivering the exact properties their design needs to be competitive.

FSRs in Extreme Applications points out, for example, that formulations based on Silastic LS 5-2040 FSR exhibit good resistance to lubricating oils, while the more consistent properties of the company's Silastic LS 4-9062 fluorosilicone rubber product stem from the fact that it is a blend of FSR and VMQ elastomers.