Elastomers
Durability with better performance for wear and insulation applications
Matrix Composites & Engineering develops advanced polyurethane and silicone elastomers engineered for durability, flexibility, and long-term performance. These materials are tailored to suit demanding operational environments from high-wear mining components to insulating systems in deepwater oil and gas operations.
As with solid thermoset resins, the mechanical and physical properties of elastomers can be customised by incorporating specialised fillers and reinforcement materials. These additions allow us to optimise strength, thermal behaviour, impact resistance, and flame retardancy while maintaining the elastic properties needed for cushioning, sealing, or protection.
Our elastomer formulations are developed in-house and moulded using flexible, scalable manufacturing processes. These are appropriate for short runs, high-wear tooling, or specialised field-ready components.
Matrix elastomers combine tailored performance and exceptional durability which are ideal for wear protection, insulation, and flexible sealing in extreme environments.
KEY BENEFITS
KEY BENEFITS
Enhanced Wear Resistance
Reinforced elastomers provide long service life in abrasive environments.
Thermal and Electrical Performance
Fillers like hollow glass microspheres and carbon black enhance insulation and conductivity control.
Custom Mechanical Tuning
Tear resistance, elasticity, and hardness adjusted to meet field requirements.
Fire-resistant Options
Intumescent-filled compounds improve fire safety performance.
Dimensional and Chemical Stability
Suitable for subsea, chemical, and applications where temperature varies.
Versatile Moulding
Suited to complex geometries and field-specific designs.
Enhanced Wear Resistance
Reinforced elastomers provide long service life in abrasive environments.
Thermal and Electrical Performance
Fillers like hollow glass microspheres and carbon black enhance insulation and conductivity control.
Custom Mechanical Tuning
Tear resistance, elasticity, and hardness adjusted to meet field requirements.
Fire-resistant Options
Intumescent-filled compounds improve fire safety performance.
Dimensional and Chemical Stability
Suitable for subsea, chemical, and applications where temperature varies.
Versatile Moulding
Suited to complex geometries and field-specific designs.
MATERIAL ADDITIVES AND THEIR FUNCTIONAL EFFECTS
Matrix customises elastomers using a range of particulate and fibre fillers to fine-tune mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties:
- Hollow glass microspheres are used to reduce density and improve insulation properties
- Carbon black is added to improve impact strength, flexural performance, and to modify electrical properties.
- Short fibre reinforcements will enhance resistance to tear and abrasion.
- Ceramic particles are used to increase wear resistance and modify tribological properties
- Intumescent additives is added to improve fire resistance and flame retardancy.
APPLICATIONS
Matrix elastomers are used across energy, mining, and defence industries, offering protection, insulation, and reliable mechanical performance:
- Protective wear products such as pads, liners, and impact-absorbing components for mining systems.
- Subsea thermal insulation for oil and gas pipelines and structures.
- Elastomer seals, boots, and gaskets with enhanced tear and chemical resistance.
- Custom-moulded housings or flexible coatings exposed to mechanical impact or environmental stress.
- Fire-resistant components for enclosed or hazardous areas.
- Field-replaceable elastomer tooling for soft-contact or cushioning requirements.