Choosing the Right SmartCells Material for Your Environment

When it comes to creating a safer, more comfortable workspace, choosing the right anti-fatigue mat is just as important as the cushioning technology underneath it. SmartCells mats combine patented SmartCells Cushioning with durable rubber materials, designed to handle the real demands of industrial, commercial, and specialty environments.

Three of the most common materials in SmartCells mats are SBR, EPDM, and Nitrile. Each has unique characteristics that make it ideal for specific workplace conditions. Let’s break down the differences so you can select the right material for your space.

SBR (Styrene Butadiene Rubber)

SBR is a versatile, cost-effective rubber that’s durable under heavy foot traffic. It’s stable yet comfortable surface makes it a favorite for general industrial and commercial use.

Best suited for:

• Manufacturing and assembly workstations
• Warehouses and logistics facilities
• Dry, high-traffic areas

Why choose SBR:

• Excellent durability and support
• Provides a stable, cushioned surface for long hours of standing
• Cost-effective and reliable for general-purpose environments

SBR is a solid choice for spaces where chemical resistance isn’t a primary concern, but comfort and longevity are essential.

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

EPDM is a highly resilient rubber known for heat resistance, lower VOC, and is also autoclavable for medical environments, making it a great option for workstations that need a durable surface in variable conditions.

Best suited for:

• Indoor work areas
• Laboratories and cleanrooms
• Environments with minimal exposure to fuels, oils, or lubricants

Why choose EPDM:

• Resists heat and bacteria
• Long-lasting color and appearance
• Maintains comfort and cushioning in dry or light-duty environments

EPDM is ideal when you need a long-lasting, resilient mat, but it’s not recommended for areas with fuel, gas, or oil exposure.

Nitrile (Buna-N)

Nitrile rubber is the go-to choice for chemical-resistant environments. It withstands fuels, lubricating oils, and most industrial chemicals, making it ideal for high-demand areas where other rubbers might degrade.

Best suited for:

• Automotive workshops and fueling stations
• Industrial facilities with oil or chemical exposure
• Labs or manufacturing areas handling solvents or lubricants

Why choose Nitrile:

• Excellent resistance to oils, fuels, and lubricants
• Maintains cushioning and stability even under chemical exposure
• Durable in high-temperature or heavy-duty conditions

Nitrile mats allow you to combine SmartCells anti-fatigue comfort with the chemical protection your team needs in challenging work environments.

Choosing the Right Material

All SmartCells mats feature patented cushioning technology, but the choice of material depends on your workspace needs:

• SBR: General-purpose, durable, and cost-effective for dry areas.
• EPDM: UV-resistant and resilient for indoor or semi-outdoor spaces, but avoid fuels or oils.
• Nitrile: Chemical and oil-resistant for harsh industrial or automotive environments.
• ESD: Designed for areas where electrostatic dissipation is needed.

Selecting the right material ensures your workforce gets maximum comfort, safety, and longevity from their SmartCells mats.

Need Help Deciding?

Our team can guide you in selecting the perfect SmartCells Anti-Fatigue solution for your environment. Whether you need standard mats, runners, or custom solutions, we have the right solution to reduce fatigue, improve comfort, and protect your team.