Elastomers in Automotive Fuels, Oils & Fluids at High Temperatures

Elastomers in fuels, oils and other fluids are increasingly being tested (and subjected to) 3000 hour life tests. These tests are not only realistic but also overdue if we are building world-class automobiles. As engineers we must not only consider the best candidate elastomers but also be aware of the potential of various elastomer degradation mechanisms. This paper will detail briefly these mechanisms and their cause/effect relationships, specifically in the engine compartment applications.