what is elastomer

An elastomer is a type of polymer that exhibits viscoelasticity, meaning it has both viscosity and elasticity, and is characterized by weak intermolecular forces, low Youngs modulus, and high failure strain compared to other materials. Elastomers are capable of returning to their original shape after being stretched, making them highly compliant and deformable at ambient temperatures. These materials are commonly used for seals, adhesives, and molded flexible parts. Elastomers can be either thermosets, which require vulcanization, or thermoplastic. They are often imagined as having a "spaghetti and meatball" molecular structure, with the meatballs representing cross-links. Some examples of elastomers include natural rubber, polyurethanes, polybutadiene, silicone, and neoprene, each with specific applications such as automotive parts, medical prostheses, and industrial belts. Elastomers are important to professional buyers, chemists, and material scientists due to their mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties, as well as their compatibility with fluids and resistance to aging.