Hypalon is a trademark for chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSPE) synthetic rubber (CSM) noted for its resistance to chemicals, temperature extremes, and ultraviolet light. It was a product of DuPont Performance Elastomers, a subsidiary of DuPont.
Along with PVC, CSM is one of the most common materials used to make inflatable boats and folding kayaks. It is also used in roofing materials.
Hypalon has become the common name for all kinds of CSM, even though DuPont was not the only manufacturer. Tosoh Corporation of Japan produces CSM under the trade names Toso-CSM and extos.
DuPont Performance Elastomers announced on May 7, 2009 that it intended to close its manufacturing plant in Beaumont, Texas by June 30, 2009. This was DPE's sole plant for CSM materials. The company was therefore exiting the business for Hypalon and also its related product, Acsium.[1] The plant closure was delayed until April 20, 2010, in response to customer requests.