What is the shelf life of fluorosilicone rubber blue?

Fluorosilicone rubber blue is a specialized material known for its unique properties and wide - ranging applications. As a supplier of this high - performance rubber, I often get asked about its shelf life. In this blog, I'll delve into the factors that affect the shelf life of fluorosilicone rubber blue and provide some insights on how to ensure its longevity.

1. Understanding Fluorosilicone Rubber Blue

Fluorosilicone rubber blue is a type of elastomer that combines the benefits of fluoropolymers and silicones. It has excellent resistance to high and low temperatures, fuels, oils, and chemicals. This makes it a popular choice in many industries, including aerospace, automotive, and electronics. The blue color is often an added feature for identification purposes or to meet specific aesthetic requirements.

The manufacturing process of fluorosilicone rubber blue involves the cross - linking of polymers, which gives it its elastic properties. Two common types of raw rubber used in the production of fluorosilicone rubber are Bisphenol Vulcanized Fluororubber Raw Rubber and Peroxy Vulcanized Fluororubber Raw Rubber. Each type has its own characteristics and vulcanization processes, which can also influence the shelf life of the final product.

2. Factors Affecting the Shelf Life of Fluorosilicone Rubber Blue

2.1 Storage Conditions

The way fluorosilicone rubber blue is stored plays a crucial role in determining its shelf life. Temperature and humidity are two of the most important factors. High temperatures can accelerate the aging process of the rubber, causing it to harden, crack, or lose its elasticity. On the other hand, low temperatures can make the rubber brittle. Ideally, the rubber should be stored in a cool, dry place with a temperature range between 20 - 25°C (68 - 77°F) and a relative humidity of less than 60%.

Exposure to light, especially ultraviolet (UV) light, can also degrade the rubber. UV rays can break down the polymer chains in the rubber, leading to surface cracking and a reduction in mechanical properties. Therefore, it is recommended to store fluorosilicone rubber blue in opaque containers or in a dark storage area.

2.2 Chemical Exposure

Fluorosilicone rubber blue is resistant to many chemicals, but prolonged exposure to certain substances can still have a negative impact on its shelf life. For example, strong acids, alkalis, and some solvents can react with the rubber, causing swelling, dissolution, or chemical degradation. It is important to keep the rubber away from these chemicals during storage and handling.

2.3 Oxidation

Oxidation is another factor that can affect the shelf life of fluorosilicone rubber blue. Oxygen in the air can react with the rubber over time, leading to the formation of free radicals and the degradation of the polymer structure. To prevent oxidation, the rubber can be stored in an environment with low oxygen levels, such as in a sealed container filled with an inert gas like nitrogen.

3. Typical Shelf Life of Fluorosilicone Rubber Blue

Under optimal storage conditions, the shelf life of fluorosilicone rubber blue can be up to 5 years. However, this is just an estimate, and the actual shelf life can vary depending on the factors mentioned above. If the rubber is stored in less - than - ideal conditions, its shelf life may be significantly reduced.

For example, if the rubber is exposed to high temperatures and humidity for an extended period, it may start to show signs of degradation within 1 - 2 years. These signs can include changes in color, hardness, and elasticity. In some cases, the rubber may become sticky or develop a powdery surface.

4. Testing the Shelf - Life of Fluorosilicone Rubber Blue

To determine whether fluorosilicone rubber blue is still suitable for use after a certain period of storage, various tests can be conducted. These tests can assess the physical and chemical properties of the rubber, such as hardness, tensile strength, elongation at break, and chemical resistance.

Hardness testing is a simple and common method. A durometer is used to measure the hardness of the rubber. If the hardness has changed significantly compared to the initial value, it may indicate that the rubber has undergone some degree of degradation.

Tensile strength and elongation at break tests can also provide valuable information about the mechanical properties of the rubber. A decrease in these properties may suggest that the polymer structure of the rubber has been damaged.

Chemical resistance tests can be performed by exposing the rubber to specific chemicals and observing any changes in its appearance or properties. If the rubber shows signs of swelling, dissolution, or other chemical reactions, it may not be suitable for use in applications where chemical resistance is critical.

5. Extending the Shelf Life of Fluorosilicone Rubber Blue

To extend the shelf life of fluorosilicone rubber blue, the following measures can be taken:

• Proper Storage: As mentioned earlier, store the rubber in a cool, dry, and dark place with controlled temperature and humidity. Use opaque containers or storage areas to protect the rubber from UV light.
• Isolation from Chemicals: Keep the rubber away from chemicals that can cause degradation. If possible, store the rubber in a dedicated storage area where it is not exposed to other chemicals.
• Use of Inhibitors: Some additives can be used to inhibit the oxidation and degradation of the rubber. These additives can be incorporated into the rubber during the manufacturing process or applied as a coating on the surface of the rubber.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, the shelf life of fluorosilicone rubber blue is influenced by various factors, including storage conditions, chemical exposure, and oxidation. Under optimal conditions, it can have a shelf life of up to 5 years. However, it is important to regularly monitor the rubber and conduct tests to ensure its quality and performance.

As a supplier of fluorosilicone rubber blue, I am committed to providing high - quality products and ensuring that my customers have the information they need to store and use the rubber effectively. If you are interested in purchasing fluorosilicone rubber blue or have any questions about its shelf life and storage, please feel free to contact me for a detailed discussion.

References

• ASTM International. (Year). Standard test methods for rubber properties in compression. ASTM D575.
• ISO (International Organization for Standardization). (Year). Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic - Determination of tensile stress - strain properties. ISO 37.
• Technical literature from fluorosilicone rubber manufacturers.