1. Neoprene By Christopher White 3-24-04

2. What is it? Versatile synthetic rubber Originally an oil-resistant substitute or natural rubber The basic chemical composition of Neoprene synthetic rubber is polychloroprene. The polymer structure can be modified by copolymerizing chloroprene with sulfur and/or 2,3 dichloro 1,3-butadiene to yield a family of materials with a broad range of chemical and physical properties. By proper selection and formulation of these polymers, the compounder can achieve optimum performance for a given end-use. Neoprene is available as a solid and as a liquid dispersion.

3. Properties Resists degradation form sun, ozone, and weather Performs well in contact with oils and many chemicals Wide temperature range Tough Flexible

4. Applications Common Wet suits Boots Gloves New Australian bridge Refrigeration

5. References www.neopreneproducts.com www.dupont-dow.com www.trp.co.uk/whatsnew/permeabilit y.html www.eliossub.com/html/accessories.html