Elastomer trade names — The commercial name “neoprene” corresponds to which polymer?

Introduction / Context:Trade names are ubiquitous in elastomer technology. Neoprene is a widely used synthetic rubber known for oil resistance, better weathering, and oxidative stability compared to natural rubber. Identifying its chemistry is key to understanding performance.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Neoprene is the trade name; we must map it to the base polymer.
• Options include common elastomer and polymer families.

Concept / Approach:Neoprene is made by polymerizing chloroprene (2-chloro-1,3-butadiene) to yield polychloroprene. The chlorine on the polymer backbone imparts improved resistance to oils, solvents, and oxidative degradation, distinguishing it from polyisoprene and SBR.

Step-by-Step Solution:Recall: Neoprene ↔ polychloroprene.Chlorine substituent → enhanced resistance properties.Therefore, select polychloroprene.

Verification / Alternative check:Manufacturer datasheets and polymer textbooks list neoprene as polychloroprene with typical applications in belts, hoses, shoe soles, and seals.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Polyisoprene: natural rubber analog; not neoprene.
• PTFE: engineering plastic, not an elastomer used as “neoprene.”
• PVAc: adhesive polymer; not neoprene.
• SBR: common synthetic rubber, but distinct from neoprene.

Common Pitfalls:Mixing up neoprene with SBR due to overlapping applications; assuming any synthetic rubber is “neoprene.”

Final Answer:Polychloroprene