Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber and Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) are both popular synthetic rubber materials, but they have distinct properties that make them suitable for different applications. From a technical standpoint, the polymer composition between the two products is vastly different: EPDM is a terpolymer of ethylene, propylene, and a diene monomer, which imparts a highly saturated polymer structure. The absence of double bonds in the main polymer chain makes EPDM more resistant to oxidative degradation and ozone attacks. On the other hand, SBR is a copolymer of styrene and butadiene. The presence of unsaturation in the polymer chain makes SBR more susceptible to attack by the ozone, and UV radiation, leading to degradation over time.
Some real-life resulting benefits of EPDM are as follows:
- Weather Resistance:
- EPDM rubber exhibits excellent resistance to weathering, UV radiation, and ozone exposure. It can withstand harsh environmental conditions without degrading, making it suitable for outdoor applications. SBR, on the other hand, is more prone to weathering and may degrade faster when exposed to sunlight and ozone.
- Temperature Resistance:
- EPDM has a broader temperature range compared to SBR. It remains flexible at low temperatures and can withstand higher temperatures without losing its physical properties. This makes EPDM suitable for applications where temperature extremes are a concern.
- Ozone Resistance:
- EPDM is highly resistant to ozone, which can cause cracking and degradation in rubber materials. SBR is not as resistant to ozone, and prolonged exposure can lead to surface cracking and deterioration.
- Chemical Resistance:
- EPDM rubber has better resistance to a wider range of chemicals compared to SBR. It is particularly resistant to acids, alkalis, and polar substances. SBR is less resistant to chemicals, and its properties may be compromised in the presence of certain chemicals.
- Aging Resistance:
- EPDM generally has better resistance to aging compared to SBR. It maintains its properties over a more extended period, making it a durable choice for long-term applications.
While both types of material can serve as useful, EPDM rubber has technical advantages in many aspects which makes it the product of choice where sustained UV exposure and chemical resistance are a main consideration. Stargum granules contain more polymer than any other manufacturer, which further emphasises the quality you get when using Stargum rubber granules. High polymer content, along with an average of 0.5% dust content, gives users the best possible outcome in regards to proper binder coverage on the granule surface area, along with some of the best UV stability on the market.