Octadecane, also known as n-eicosane, is a hydrocarbon found in waxes, lubricants, and aerosol propellants. It is widely used in the automotive and aerospace industries as a lubricant and fuel additive. When exposed to octadecane, rubber can suffer from swelling, shrinkage, a decrease in tensile strength, and a decrease in elasticity. In some cases, the rubber can become brittle leading to cracking and eventual failure. In extreme cases, the rubber can become brittle and break, leading to a complete failure of the material.
Viton ® o-rings from Marco Rubber offer excellent compatibility with a range of chemicals, oils and resist high temperatures up to 400F. Viton ® is also known as FKM made of fluoroelastomer one of the most versatile and widely used sealing materials.
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