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Why are fluoroelastomers used for O-rings and seals?

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Know how researchers created a synthetic material, elastomers, that can change color and texture to specific voltage change, like that of cephalopods — elastomer Learn about elastomers that are changeable in colour and texture, much like the skin of octopuses and other cephalopods. In the elastomers, these changes take place under electrical stimulation.

Fluoroelastomers are synthetic rubbers highly valued for O-rings, seals, and gaskets due to their exceptional durability in demanding environments.12

Their primary advantages include:

Environmental Resistance: They possess outstanding resistance to oxygen, ozone, and high temperatures.12
Chemical Stability: They resist swelling when exposed to oils, fuels, and chlorinated solvents.12
Thermal Performance: These materials can withstand service temperatures as high as 250 °C (480 °F), making them the preferred choice for aerospace and industrial equipment operating under severe conditions.12

While they are ideal for these specific applications, it is important to note that they are susceptible to damage from steam, ketones, and ethers, and they lose their elasticity by becoming glassy at temperatures near room temperature.12