EXHAUST GASES, CONTAINING CARBON MONOXIDE Resistant O-Rings and Seals

Exhaust gases, containing carbon monoxide, are also known as CO exhaust, CO emissions, or car exhaust. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that is produced when incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels such as gasoline, oil and wood takes place. Carbon monoxide is a major air pollutant and is found in many industries such as power plants, automobiles and manufacturing.

Common types of failures when rubber is exposed to carbon monoxide include oxidation, cracking, swelling and hardening. Oxidation occurs when the rubber reacts with oxygen in the air to form a tough, inflexible coating on the surface of the rubber. Cracking can occur when the rubber is exposed to temperature fluctuations or when the rubber is exposed to UV light. Swelling is a result of the rubber absorbing the carbon monoxide, resulting in an increase in volume. Hardening occurs when the rubber is exposed to the gas for an extended period of time, resulting in a decrease in flexibility.