Neoprene

From Free net encyclopedia

Neoprene is the DuPont Chemical trade name for a family of synthetic rubbers based on polychloroprene. Neoprene was invented by DuPont scientists after Dr. Elmer K. Bolton of DuPont laboratories attended a lecture by Fr. Julius Arthur Nieuwland, a professor of chemistry at the University of Notre Dame. Fr. Nieuwland's research was focused on acetylene chemistry and during the course of his work he produced divinyl acetylene, a jelly which firms into an elastic compound similar to rubber when passed over sulfur dichloride. After DuPont purchased the patent rights from the university, Wallace Carothers of DuPont took over commercial development of Nieuwland's discovery in collaboration with Nieuwland himself. DuPont focused on monovinyl acetylene and reacted the substance with hydrogen chloride gas, manufacturing chloroprene. Polychloroprene is the polymer of chloroprene, the synthetic rubber known as Neoprene.

Neoprene (originally called Duprene) was the first mass-produced synthetic rubber compound. It is used in a wide variety of environments, such as in wetsuits, electrical insulation, and car fan belts. Its chemical inertness makes it well suited for industrial applications such as gaskets, hoses, and corrosion-resistant coatings. It can also be used as a base for adhesives. Neoprene is used for noise isolation in power transformer installations. Its springy consistency makes it notoriously difficult to fold when in sheet form. Neoprene can also be used as padding in external metal cases to protect the contents while allowing a snug fit. Neoprene is also used as a contrast in some jewelry designs.

Neoprene is also commonly used as a material for fly fishing waders, as it provides excellect insulation against cold. Neoprene waders are usually about 5 mm thick, and in the medium price-range as compared to cheaper materials such as nylon and rubber. However, Neoprene is less expensive than breathable fabrics.

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