OCSiAl touts graphene FKM for harsh environments

Luxembourg – Graphene nanotube manufacturer OCSiAl has claimed that new fluoroelastomers formulations with graphene nanotubes can offer more durable polymers for applications in harsh environments such as the oil & gas, automotive and chemical processing industries.

In a statement 13 May, the Luxembourg-based company said new technology, based on OCSiAl’s Tuball graphene nanotubes, has been developed to improve the properties both of silica- and carbon black-reinforced FKM formulas.

The new formulation, according to OCSiAl, reduces filler content and improves polymer stability for use in seals, O-rings, gaskets and hoses exposed to harsh environments. 

In carbon black-based FKM formulation, said OCSiAl, introducing as little as 3% graphene nanotube concentrate can neutralise carbon black’s negative impacts on flexibility and elasticity.

“Nanotubes make it possible to achieve electrical resistivity of 5 Ohm-cm, and at the same time to improve tensile and tear parameters by 30–40% without a reduction in elasticity,” said OCSiAl citing data after heat and fuel C aging.
 
In silica-based FKM, the addition of graphene nanotubes can increase resistance to synthetic fuels and heat, the company said.

The graphene nanotubes, according to OCSiAl, improve tensile strength and M100 (or modulus 100) by up to 30%, increase abrasion resistance by up to 20% and enhance tear strength by up to 90%. 

“Moreover, tests have proven that these improvements to mechanical properties are maintained throughout extensive heating,” said the company statement. 

OCSiAl also claims that graphene nanotube-enhanced, silica-based FKMs offer electrical conductivity below 10 Ohm-cm.