Most of the O-Rings are elastomer-made. Elastomer refers to the elasticity of rubbers that change shape when subjected to force and return to their original shape as soon as the force ceases. The base of these elastomers is rubber. This can be “natural” when it comes from plantations or “synthetic” when it comes from the chemical industry. Nowadays, the second option is usually the one applied for the production of O-rings.
One of the most commonly used synthetic rubbers for the manufacture of O-Rings is NBR, which chemical name of the basic polymer is: Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (DIN ISO 1629: NBR / ASTM D 1418: NBR).