Nitrile Rubber

Nitrile Rubber Overview

Nitrile rubber is a synthetic rubber copolymer made of acrylonitrile and butadiene which can have varying properties depending on the acrylonitrile percentage. Nitrile rubber is also known as Buna-N, Perbunan®, acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, and NBR. It also has trade names including Nipol®, Krynac®, and Europrene®. Laser processing of nitrile rubber is possible with either a 9.3 or 10.6 micron CO2 laser without any appreciable difference in processing quality. Nitrile rubber does not readily absorb the energy of a 1.06 micron fiber laser and is not recommended for this material. Laser cutting of nitrile rubber with a CO2 laser results in a wide cut with sharp edges, having some discoloration at the edge. Laser engraving of nitrile rubber can be performed with a CO2 laser to create some depth and minimal residue. Laser marking of nitrile rubber is not possible with the 1.06, 9.3, or 10.6 micron wavelengths.

Applicable Laser Processes for Nitrile Rubber

Laser Cutting
Laser Engraving