Which material is commonly used in elastomeric bearings?

Elastomeric bearings are structural components used in bridges and other civil engineering structures to allow for movement and load distribution while providing flexibility and support. The correct answer identifies plain and laminated neoprene as the most commonly used material in elastomeric bearings due to its desirable mechanical properties.

Neoprene has excellent durability, flexibility, and resistance to deformation over time under load, which makes it ideal for applications that require both load-bearing capacity and the ability to accommodate movements such as thermal expansion, contraction, and minor settlement. The laminated structure enhances these properties further by providing added strength and improved performance characteristics, allowing the bearings to effectively manage the stresses imposed by bridge traffic and environmental factors.

While polyurethane and silicone also have applications in various structural components, they do not provide the same combination of properties that make neoprene particularly suitable for elastomeric bearings. Fiberglass, on the other hand, while strong and lightweight, lacks the necessary flexibility to function effectively in the role of a bearing material.