Nitrile, a synthetic rubber, is fundamentally a copolymer of acrylonitrile and butadiene. The specific properties of the resulting material are determined by the ratio of these two monomers in the polymerization process. Higher acrylonitrile content generally results in improved resistance to chemicals and oils, while a greater proportion of butadiene enhances flexibility and low-temperature performance. The polymerization reaction creates long chains of repeating acrylonitrile and butadiene units, forming the robust and versatile material.
The resultant polymer’s key attribute is its resistance to oils, fuels, and various chemicals. This characteristic has made it a crucial material in industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to healthcare and food processing. Its use in gloves, seals, and hoses is widespread due to its durability and protective qualities. Historically, the development of this compound provided a valuable alternative to natural rubber in applications requiring superior chemical resistance. This contribution reduced reliance on natural rubber sources and expanded design possibilities in engineering.
