Fluoroelastomer Permeability: Gas Barrier Properties in High-Vacuum Applications.

Fluoroelastomer Permeability: Gas Barrier Properties in High-Vacuum Applications

Problem Statement

Fluoroelastomers (FKM) must maintain low gas permeability in high-vacuum environments. Standard elastomers like NBR and EPDM exhibit excessive gas transmission rates, leading to vacuum loss and system failure.

Material Science Analysis

FKM’s fluorine-carbon backbone provides superior gas barrier properties. The high electronegativity of fluorine atoms creates a dense molecular structure, reducing gas diffusion. NBR and EPDM lack this molecular density, resulting in higher permeability.

Technical Specs

• Shore A Hardness: 75 ± 5
• Tensile Strength: 15 MPa
• Elongation at Break: 200%
• Temperature Range: -20°C to +200°C
• Compression Set (70h @ 200°C): ≤ 20%

Technical Comparison

Material	Gas Permeability (He, cm³·mm/m²·day·atm)	Temperature Range (°C)	Compression Set (%)
FKM	0.5	-20 to +200	≤ 20
NBR	15	-30 to +120	≤ 40
EPDM	10	-50 to +150	≤ 30

Standard Compliance

RubberQ’s IATF 16949-certified process ensures batch-to-batch consistency. Our FKM compounds comply with ASTM D2000 for material callouts and ISO 3601 for sealing performance.

For custom material compound development or IATF 16949 documentation, consult RubberQ’s engineering department.