Shelf-life of an O-Ring depends upon the characteristics of each elastomer present in the compound and also upon the environmental conditions. With optimum packaging and storage conditions, NBR will have an average shelf-life of 5 years; FKM up to 10 years.

Storage environment

Rubber deterioration is normally due to environmental conditions. Recommended storage conditions are:

• storage temperature should be around 10/20°C (50/68°F) and humidity 65/75%
• suitable packaging to protect the rubber goods against heat, direct sun-light or artificial lighting and ozone
• rubber parts must always be stored in a relaxed state, free from tension or strain induced by deformations.

Warehouse buildings should be well ventilated, at a moderate temperature and sheltered from direct sunlight. In addition to atmospheric ozone, this active contaminant is also generated by electric motors and by mercury vapor lamps. Ozone must be avoided whenever possible. Before using rubber goods that have been stored for an extended period of time, it is advisable to perform routine testing of physical and mechanical properties to insure compound integrity. In case of fire of elastomeric materials, noxious and toxic by-products may be formed.