Nitrile vs. Viton — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 8, 2024
Nitrile rubber is noted for its resistance to oils and non-polar solvents, while Viton excels in high-temperature environments and chemical resistance.
Difference Between Nitrile and Viton
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Nitrile rubber, a synthetic material, performs well in applications involving oils, greases, and aliphatic hydrocarbons, due to its stable structure. Viton, on the other hand, handles extreme temperatures and resists a broader range of chemicals, including aromatic hydrocarbons and acids.
In terms of cost, nitrile is generally more economical and widely used for everyday applications such as automotive seals and gaskets. Viton, whereas, is more expensive but justified by its superior performance in harsher or more demanding environments.
The temperature range for nitrile typically spans from -40 to 108°C, making it suitable for most industrial applications. Viton outperforms by withstanding temperatures from -20 to 210°C, ideal for applications in aerospace or oil and gas industries.
For elasticity and flexibility, nitrile offers better performance at lower temperatures. Viton, on the other hand, maintains its properties over a broader temperature range but can be less flexible than nitrile at lower temperatures.
The durability of nitrile against abrasion and wear is generally good, making it suitable for industrial and automotive applications. Viton excels in environments where chemical and heat resistance are paramount, ensuring longevity even under stress.
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Comparison Chart
Primary Use
Oil-resistant applications
High-temperature chemical resistance
Cost
Economical
More expensive
Temperature Range
-40°C to 108°C
-20°C to 210°C
Flexibility
More flexible at low temp.
Less flexible at low temp.
Chemical Resistance
Good against hydrocarbons
Excellent against a wide range of chemicals
Compare with Definitions
Nitrile
A type of synthetic rubber resistant to oil, fuel, and other chemicals.
Nitrile gloves are essential for mechanics working with oily parts.
Viton
Used in automotive, aerospace, and chemical applications.
Viton fuel hoses withstand harsh fuel blends.
Nitrile
Commonly used in the automotive and aerospace industries.
Nitrile seals are preferred for hydraulic systems.
Viton
A brand name for fluoropolymer elastomers and synthetic rubber.
Viton gaskets are used in chemical processing plants.
Nitrile
Characterized by good abrasion resistance.
Nitrile hoses are durable enough for demanding industrial applications.
Viton
Less effective at extremely low temperatures.
Viton components are less flexible in arctic conditions.
Nitrile
Performs well in low and moderate temperatures.
Nitrile o-rings are effective in cold climates.
Viton
Typically more expensive than nitrile.
Viton materials are preferred for long-term investments in machinery.
Nitrile
Not suitable for exposure to ketones and organic acids.
Nitrile is not recommended for handling acetone or acetic acid.
Viton
Notable for high heat, oil, and chemical resistance.
Viton seals are crucial in high-temperature engines.
Nitrile
A nitrile is any organic compound that has a −C≡N functional group. The prefix cyano- is used interchangeably with the term nitrile in industrial literature.
Nitrile
An organic molecule containing a CN group, an organic derivative of hydrocyanic acid.
Nitrile
An oil-resistant copolymer of acrylonitrile and butadiene, used especially for disposable gloves, gaskets, seals, and tubing. Also called nitrile rubber.
Nitrile
(organic chemistry) any of a class of organic compounds containing a cyano functional group -C≡N; they are named as derivatives of the appropriate carboxylic acid.
Nitrile
A type of synthetic rubber formed by the copolymerisation of acrylonitrile and butadiene.
Nitrile
Any one of a series of compounds bearing the cyanide radical (-CN); particularly, one of those cyanides of alcohol radicals which, by boiling with acids or alkalies, produce a carboxyl acid, with the elimination of the nitrogen as ammonia.
Nitrile
Any of a class of organic compounds containing the cyano radical -CN
Common Curiosities
Can nitrile rubber be used with acids?
Nitrile is generally not recommended for strong acids or ketones.
Is Viton or nitrile better for automotive applications?
Nitrile is often sufficient for standard automotive applications, while Viton is used in high-performance or extreme conditions.
What is nitrile rubber best used for?
It's best used in applications where oil and fuel resistance is needed.
What temperatures can nitrile withstand?
Nitrile can handle temperatures from -40°C to 108°C.
Why is Viton preferred in high-temperature settings?
Viton maintains its integrity at higher temperatures compared to nitrile.
Are there any environments where nitrile should not be used?
Nitrile should not be used with ozone, ketones, esters, and chlorinated hydrocarbons.
What makes Viton more expensive than nitrile?
The superior chemical and temperature resistance of Viton drives up its cost.
Which material is more flexible?
Nitrile is generally more flexible, especially at lower temperatures.
What industries benefit most from using nitrile?
Industries like automotive and oil & gas benefit greatly from nitrile's properties.
What are the limitations of Viton?
Cost and reduced flexibility at lower temperatures are limitations of Viton.
How do the chemical resistances of nitrile and Viton compare?
Viton covers a wider range of chemical resistances, including aromatic hydrocarbons and strong acids.
What are common uses of Viton aside from automotive?
Viton is commonly used in chemical processing equipment and aerospace applications.
Can Viton be used in food processing?
Yes, Viton can be used in food processing, especially where high temperature and chemical resistance are needed.
Is nitrile or Viton more durable?
Viton generally offers better durability in harsh chemical and high-temperature environments.
Can either material handle organic solvents?
Nitrile handles aliphatic hydrocarbons well, while Viton can handle both aliphatic and some aromatic solvents.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
