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Two new elastomers (a copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene and propylene and a terpolymer of tetrafluoroethylene, propylene, and vinylidene fluoride) demonstrate better chemical resistance to a wide variety of new automotive fluids compared to presently used FKM (FPM) types of fluoroelastomers. The fluids include engine oils, coolants, transmission fluids and extreme pressure (EP) gear lubricants. In addition, one of these new elastomers has shown very little sensitivity to the various additive packages that different manufacturers can use in these fluids.

Specification testing has shown FKM fluoroelastomers are significantly affected by newer engine oils, transmission fluids and extreme pressure gear lubricants. A new fluoroelastomer and cure system has been developed which provides better chemical resistance vis-a-vis FKM fluoroelastomers to these fluids. The unique backbone structure of propylene, tetrafluoroethylene and a specific third monomer is different from FKM fluoroelastomers and together with a proprietary cure system accounts for the improved chemical resistance. This new elastomer is available from 3M and it will be referred to as TPT in this paper.