Non-Asbestos Gasket Materials and Uses

non-asbestos gaskets

October 2, 2025

Up until the 1990s, asbestos was commonly used in gasket production. However, when the toxicity of this fiber became widely recognized, it was swiftly banned. As a result, gasket manufacturers developed non-asbestos materials as a safer alternative. What is a non-asbestos gasket? Let’s take a closer look at these materials, which are now the standard for various industrial applications.

What is Non-Asbestos Gasket Material?

Non-asbestos gasket material refers to the range of materials now used in the industry as replacements for asbestos. Once the dangers of asbestos became clear, manufacturers began using fibrous materials such as aramid, polymers, rubber compounds, and synthetic fibers. Compressed Non-Asbestos (CNA) gasket materials are non-toxic and safe for human use.

Key features of CNA gasket material:

  • Wide temperature range
  • Excellent chemical resistance
  • Superior stress resistance
  • Strong sealing integrity
  • Long service life
  • Exceptional joint stability

Types of Non-Asbestos Material

“Non-Asbestos” is a broad category that includes a variety of materials, such as:

  • Aramid: A strong, heat-resistant fiber with a low compression set and high abrasion resistance. Commonly used in automotive,
    chemical, and oil and gas applications.
  • Cellulose: A natural, plant-based fiber with high sealing properties and resistance to oil and gasoline. Often used in food and
    beverage, as well as oil and gas industries.
  • Carbon: High-strength, lightweight fibers with excellent chemical and heat resistance. Frequently applied in automotive and
    marine industries.
  • Graphite: A carbon-based material with superior thermal conductivity and chemical resistance. Widely used in petrochemical and
    utilities industries.
  • Ceramic: Ideal for high-temperature applications and for handling corrosive chemicals.
  • PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene): A synthetic polymer with low friction properties and outstanding chemical resistance. Used in
    chemical, food and beverage, and pharmaceutical applications.
  • Rubber: Known for flexibility, water resistance, and chemical resistance, making it a preferred gasket material across
    many sectors.
  • Silica: Suitable for applications that require resistance to high temperatures and corrosive environments.
  • Thermoplastic fibers: Provide dimensional stability and reliable performance in high-temperature conditions.
  • Thermosetting fibers: Used where flexibility is less critical, and permanent shape retention is required.

Non-Asbestos Gasket Material and Applications Across Industries

Non-Asbestos gaskets, such as CNA sheet gaskets, are used in a wide variety of industries, including:

Durlon is a trusted global supplier of Non-Asbestos gaskets, as well as gaskets made from a range of many other materials.

Contact us today for more information about our gasket solutions, or browse our products online.