NR — Natural Polyisoprene (cis-1,4-polyisoprene)

Natural Rubber

We stock NR sheet rubber for heavy-duty industrial sealing, lining, and impact protection — in standard, insert-reinforced, checker plate, and fluted profiles. Among common elastomers, NR offers the highest resilience (50–80% per ASTM D2632) and outstanding tear resistance, which is why it remains the default for vibration dampening and abrasion liners. For SBR (styrene butadiene rubber), see our dedicated SBR page.

At a Glance

Temperature Range

-55 °C to +70 °C continuous; +90 °C intermittent peak

Thickness Range

0.8 mm to 50 mm

Hardness Range

30–90 Shore A

Brands We Stock

ReglineLinardLinatex
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Technical Properties

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

Temperature Range-55 °C to +70 °C continuous; +90 °C intermittent peak
Hardness (ASTM D2240)30–90 Shore A
Tensile Strength (ASTM D412)15–25 MPa
Elongation at Break (ASTM D412)300–700% (filled industrial grades); pure-gum NR to 800%
Compression Set (ASTM D395)20–40%. 22 h @ 70 °C
Tear Strength (ASTM D624)30–80 kN/m (HT specialty grades to 100)
Specific Gravity (ASTM D792)0.93–1.10
Thickness Range0.8–50 mm stocked
Standards ClassificationASTM D2000 AA (Type A heat ageing, Class A); ISO 1629 NR
Abrasion Resistance (ASTM D5963)Excellent. Superior to most synthetics
FDA AvailableYes. 21 CFR 177.2600
Resilience (ASTM D2632)50–80%. Highest of all elastomers
Ozone / Weather ResistancePoor. NR cracks under ozone and sustained UV; specify CR or EPDM for outdoor service
Petroleum Oil ResistancePoor. NR swells significantly in mineral oil, diesel, and petrol; specify NBR or FKM for hydrocarbon service

Common Applications

  • Heavy-duty industrial gaskets and seals
  • Conveyor belt skirting and lining
  • Vibration dampening pads and mounts
  • Impact-resistant chute and hopper linings
  • Water and wastewater system gaskets
  • Non-slip flooring and matting
  • General-purpose low-temperature seals
  • Food-grade conveyor and contact surfaces (FDA grades)
  • Mining equipment linings and wear pads
  • Expansion joints and flexible couplings

Not Recommended For

  • Poor ozone and UV resistance — NR cracks under sustained ozone exposure or direct sunlight. Specify CR (neoprene) or EPDM for outdoor service.
  • Poor petroleum oil and fuel resistance — NR swells aggressively in mineral oil, diesel, petrol, and most hydrocarbons. Specify NBR or FKM for oil service.
  • Limited upper service temperature (+70 °C continuous) — NR softens and ages rapidly above this. Specify EPDM, CR, or FKM for higher temperatures.
  • Aldehydes, ketones, esters, and chlorinated solvents attack NR. Verify chemical compatibility before specifying.
  • Not approved for AS/NZS 4020 potable water service in standard formulations. Specify EPDM for Australian potable water systems.

Available Grades

Brands we stock: Regline, Linard, Linatex

Standard NR (60 Shore A)

General-purpose black natural rubber sheet with excellent tear resistance and resilience. Our most popular grade for industrial gaskets, lining, and vibration control.

Insert-Reinforced NR

NR bonded to nylon or polyester fabric plies for increased tensile strength and dimensional stability. Used in large-format gaskets, diaphragms, and conveyor skirting.

Checker Plate NR

Natural rubber sheet with raised checker plate pattern on one face for anti-slip and drainage applications. Available in a range of thicknesses.

Fluted NR

Natural rubber sheet with parallel fluted ribs for directional drainage and anti-slip in wet environments. Commonly used in walkways, ramps, and vehicle flooring.

NR FDA Grade

Food Safe

Food-safe natural rubber formulated to meet FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 requirements for direct food contact applications.

Related Resources

Chemical Compatibility

Check natural rubber resistance to specific chemicals and media.

Sheet Rubber Selection

Compare NR against other rubber compounds side by side.

Shore Hardness Guide

Understand durometer scales and what hardness means in practice.

Related Materials

SBR (Styrene Butadiene Rubber) EPDM Neoprene (CR) Nitrile (NBR) Butyl (IIR)

Need Natural Rubber?

We supply natural rubber in sheet, roll, and custom die-cut forms. Contact our team for pricing, data sheets, or technical assistance.

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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.