Everything about NR

What are the different types?

EKI’s range includes two types of natural rubber: NR sponge rubber and NR cellular rubber.

NR sponge rubber, also known as moss rubber, is the most natural variant of all sponge rubbers. Being made from natural rubber, it has the best mechanical properties among moss rubbers. This means that even after being fully compressed, NR sponge rubber will return to its original shape, no matter how often it’s compressed. Additionally, it is soft, elastic, and known for being highly abrasion-resistant. It’s an open-cell material with a skin around it, but at EKI, the sides of this skin are trimmed, making it not entirely waterproof. Since NR sponge rubber is made from natural rubber, it is less resistant to ozone and UV radiation. Some other downsides include its faster aging and lack of flame resistance. However, the material performs well under frequent use in low temperatures and is resistant to alkalis.

Another material made from natural rubber is NR cellular rubber, also known as Schwammgummi. Like NR sponge rubber, it has good mechanical properties but is not completely waterproof and even absorbs liquids. NR cellular rubber doesn’t have the same weather resistance as other cellular rubbers but offers excellent elasticity, making it tear-resistant and highly deformable. NR cellular rubber comes in various hardnesses and densities, making it a versatile material.