EPM and EPDM are the fastest growing elastomers by virtue of their excellent ozone resistnce in comparison with commodity rubbers. Even though these rubbers have been commercially available for more than 30 years, the production and applications technologies are still very much under development. The various structural parameters of EP(D)M are described, as well as how these depend on production conditions. EP(D)M is produced in suspension with liquid propylene as dispersing agent, or most commonly in solution where the polymer produced is dissolved in a hydrocarbon solvent. The solution process technology is described in detail. EP(D)M can be compounded with fillers and plasticizers. Basic principles of compounding are described, including a few typical examples of EP(D)M recipes. EP(D)M can be mixed, extruded, and vulcanized on all common rubber‐factory equipment.
The mechanical properties depend considerably on the structural characteristics of the EP(D)M and the type and amount of fillers in the compound. Some typical properties of EP(D)M vulcanizates are good elastic properties, resistance to heat and ozone, various chemicals, and good electrical properties. The principal uses of vulcanized EP(D)M rubber are in automotive, building and construction, cable and wire, and appliances. Unvulcanized EP(D)M rubber is mainly used in blends with thermoplastics, particularly polypropylene, and as an oil additive.