ABSTRACT
An elastomeric polymer is a synthetic rubber whose evolution is a story to inspire the imagination and to herald appreciation of the complex evolution of rubber. Currently, elastomeric polymers in construction represent a very small piece of the pie. Synthetic rubber is used in low pitch rubber roof coverings as well as in construction adhesives, sealants, and roofing asphalt. Beyond the polymerization process, plasticizers and additives are a component of the formulation. Rubber adhesives and sealants are suspended in organic solvents. The polyisobutylene monomer is isobutylene, and the polymerization process is high-energy exothermic process. Ethylene polypropylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, thermoset elastomeric terpolymer, is produced by the polymerizing ethylene, propylene, and small percentage of diene. According to manufacturers, EPDM roof membrane components are up to 50" fillers and up to 35" additives which are often proprietary. The most frequently encountered rubber building material is EPDM waterproof membranes used on flat/low slope pitch roofs, foundations, and retaining walls.
