Closed-Cell Neoprene Foam

Closed-cell neoprene foam combines weather, ozone, and moderate oil resistance with excellent compression set recovery. We stock neoprene sponge in sheet and roll form for environmental sealing, vibration isolation, and HVAC gaskets where moderate oil resistance or self-extinguishing properties are needed alongside weather and ozone sealing.

At a Glance

Temperature Range

-40 °C to +90 °C continuous; intermittent to +100 °C

Thickness Range

1.5 mm to 50 mm

Available Forms

SheetRollStripDie-cut gasketAdhesive-backed

Colours

Black (standard)
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Technical Properties

Typical values across stocked grades. Specific grade data sheets available on request.

Cell StructureClosed-cell (moisture and vapour resistant)
Temperature Range-40 °C to +90 °C continuous; intermittent to +100 °C
Density (ASTM D1056)80–250 kg/m³ (grade dependent)
Compression Set (ASTM D1056)15–30% (25% deflection, 22 h @ 70 °C)
Compression Deflection (ASTM D1056)35–170 kPa (grade dependent)
Tensile Strength (ASTM D3574 / D1056 cellular section)0.5–2.5 MPa (cellular test method; ASTM D412 dies are for solid rubber and produce non-comparable data)
Elongation at Break100–300%
Water Absorption (ASTM D1056)<5% by volume
Ozone ResistanceExcellent, inherent to chloroprene chemistry
Oil ResistanceModerate; resists mineral oils and greases
FlammabilitySelf-extinguishing (UL 94 HBF typical)
Thickness Range1.5 mm to 50 mm

Physical Characteristics

Density

80–250 kg/m³ (grade dependent)

Tensile Strength

0.5–2.5 MPa

Chemical Resistance

Resistant To

  • Water and dilute aqueous solutions
  • Mineral oils and petroleum greases
  • Ozone and UV exposure (outdoor service)
  • Dilute acids and alkalis
  • Refrigerants (R-134a, R-410A) — for low-pressure insulation and condensate sealing only; not rated for pressurised system seals

Limited Resistance

  • Petroleum fuels (short-term splash only)
  • Vegetable oils and animal fats
  • Dilute solvents (alcohol-based cleaners)

Not Recommended

  • Aromatic solvents (toluene, xylene), which cause swelling and breakdown
  • Ketones (MEK, acetone): significant swelling and softening
  • Chlorinated solvents (rapid degradation)
  • Strong oxidising acids, which attack the polymer chain

Environmental Ratings

Flame Rating

Self-extinguishing — UL 94 HBF typical (≥3 mm thickness); fire-retardant grades available on request

Weather Resistance

Good, suitable for outdoor use. Neoprene's primary advantage over EPDM is oil and flame resistance, not weather resistance

Ozone Resistance

Excellent. No cracking at 50 pphm / 40 °C / 70 h per ASTM D1171

UV Resistance

Good. Black grades offer inherent UV stability for outdoor gaskets

Standards & Certifications

Standards Compliance

ASTM D1056 (flexible cellular rubber: sponge and expanded; Type 2 Class C oil-resistant grades 2C2–2C5 typical)ASTM D3574 (flexible cellular materials — slab, bonded, and moulded foams: tensile, tear, density)UL 94 HBF (flammability rating for self-extinguishing materials)

Common Applications

  • HVAC duct gaskets and seals
  • Electrical enclosure and cabinet gaskets (IP-rated)
  • Outdoor equipment weather seals
  • Marine hatch and porthole gaskets
  • Vibration isolation pads and mounts
  • Pipe and duct insulation wraps
  • Expansion joint filler
  • Automotive door and boot seals

Not Recommended For

  • Limited to 90 °C continuous (intermittent to 100 °C). For higher temperatures, use silicone sponge
  • Not resistant to aromatic or chlorinated solvents; use nitrile sponge for fuel and solvent exposure
  • Higher cost than EPDM sponge, so specify neoprene only when oil or ozone resistance is needed
  • Compression set increases with temperature, so avoid sustained compression above 80 °C
  • Not food-safe unless specifically certified — contact us for FDA/food-grade requirements

Available Grades

Neoprene Sponge: Medium Density (ASTM D1056 2C2 / 2C3)

General-purpose closed-cell neoprene at 100–160 kg/m³, classified ASTM D1056 Type 2 Class C (oil-resistant) Grade 2 or 3 (medium compression-deflection). Our standard recommendation for weather sealing, enclosure gaskets, and HVAC applications.

Neoprene Sponge: High Density (ASTM D1056 2C4 / 2C5)

Firmer grade at 180–250 kg/m³, classified ASTM D1056 Type 2 Class C Grade 4 or 5 (medium-firm to firm compression-deflection). Used where medium-density sponge compresses too much under service loads — typical for higher bolt loads and vibration isolation.

Neoprene Sponge (Adhesive-Backed)

Medium-density neoprene with pressure-sensitive adhesive on one face. Simplifies installation on vertical and overhead surfaces — peel, stick, and seal.

CR/NBR Blend Sponge

Neoprene blended with nitrile rubber for improved fuel and oil resistance. Used in automotive and industrial applications where occasional hydrocarbon contact is expected.

Need Closed-Cell Neoprene Foam?

We supply closed-cell neoprene foam in sheet, roll, and custom die-cut forms. Contact our team for pricing, data sheets, or technical assistance.

Disclaimer

This resource is provided for general engineering reference only and does not constitute professional advice, specification, or guarantee of performance. Actual results depend on specific application conditions. Universal Gaskets Pty Ltd accepts no responsibility or liability for decisions made based on this information. For full terms, see our Terms & Conditions.