Trainers to tyres: The uses of styrene-butadiene rubber

Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) is an all-purpose synthetic rubber formed from a copolymer of styrene and butadiene. In the modern day, SBR rubber polymer (as it is also known) is utilised in many unique ways, from pneumatic tyres to shoe heels and even chewing gum! In this blog, TRP Polymer Solutions will cover the breadth of uses of styrene-butadiene rubber and its qualities that make it such a versatile and commonly used polymer.

Common uses of styrene-butadiene rubber

SBR rubber polymer is a commonly found elastomer material that’s used across many industries as a result of its durability and flexibility. As such, it is typically used in the following types of applications:

• Rubber ground rollers and feed tyres
• Custom rubber gaskets
• Conveyor belts
• Hoses
• Adhesives

Surprising uses of styrene-butadiene rubber

As a result of its dependable qualities, SBR is used in an especially diverse set of applications. This even includes some less-commonly thought of uses that you may not even have known about! Below are some of the uses of styrene-butadiene rubber where you probably wouldn’t expect to find this polymer:

• Pneumatic rubber tyres 
• Shoe heels 
• Chewing gum

What are the fundamental properties of SBR rubber?

SBR rubber’s functional properties include:

• Operating temperature – -20℃ to +90℃
• Hardness range – 40 to 95 IRHD

Types of SBR rubber polymer

There are two different types of SBR rubber polymer: emulsion SBR and solution SBR. Emulsion SBR has been favoured in the past due to its excellent processing properties and its ability to be produced in a continuous process, rendering it extremely cost-effective. On the other hand, solution SBR can be produced in both batch and continuous processes, with the batch method permitting easier manipulation of the response conditions and the features of the polymer.

Advantages of styrene-butadiene rubber

In many instances, SBR replaces natural rubber, as it is more economically friendly and delivers a great deal of benefits. For instance, SBR offers excellent abrasion resistance, crack endurance, and generally ages well. It also delivers good compression set resistance and water resistance.

Disadvantages of styrene-butadiene rubber

The main disadvantage of SBR is its poor sunlight and ozone resistance, making it less effective in outdoor applications. Furthermore, it has poor steam and oil resistance, forcing the rubber to swell and become weakened over time. These negatives limit SBR’s use in hot, wet environments.

Choose TRP Polymer Solutions for high-quality SBR rubber components

As you have found out, the uses of styrene-butadiene rubber are vast, being a highly versatile elastomer for many industries. However, if you are uncertain as to whether it will be compatible with your custom rubber moulding component or another type of polymer would be more suitable, our expert team at TRP Polymer Solutions are more than happy to discuss this with you.

For specific advice on styrene-butadiene rubber and its compatibility with your application, contact us via our enquiry form or email us directly at sales@trp.co.uk. This is particularly important when the application involves the interaction of more than one chemical or fluid. To speak to our sales team, please call +44 (0) 1432 268899.

Chris HD 8 Jul 2017 • 3 min read

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