SBR - Styrene rubber

Styrene rubber, SBR, is a copolymer of styrene and butadiene that belongs to the group of synthetic rubber materials.

Styrene rubber has high elasticity and flexibility, which makes it useful for the manufacture of products that require good recovery and resistance to deformation. Styrene rubber is usually used as a substitute for natural rubber or that they are combined together.

The addition of styrene contributes to the good wear and bonding properties and also improves the material's strength and abrasion resistance. Compared to natural rubber, the fatigue resistance and low temperature properties of SBR material are worse, while the heat aging properties and abrasion resistance are better. SBR is therefore a good choice for applications that are used in tough and demanding environments.

SBR has poorer chemical resistance, i.e. solvent resistance, and weathering properties than most other elastomers.

It is often used in the automotive industry for the manufacture of tires, grommets and seals.
SBR - Styrene rubber
Properties styrene rubber
Properties

SBR - Styrene rubber

Styrene rubber (SBR) is most often used when a durable material is needed.

Compared to natural rubber, elasticity and low temperature properties are worse, while heat resistance is better. Even SBR has low ozone resistance, but it can be improved by adding antiozonants and protective waxes.
  • Maximum temperature: 90°C
  • Minimum temperature: -40°C
  • Tear strength: 3
  • Compression set at -30 to +70°C: 4
  • Compression set at +70 to +150°C: 1
  • Attrition: 4-5
  • Oil and gasoline resistance: 1
  • Weather and ozone resistance: 1-2
  • Heat aging: 1-2
  • Adhesion to metal: 4-5
  • Adhesion to textile: 4-5
  • ​Grading scale for table
Rating
5 - Excellent / 4 - Very good / 3 - Good / 2 - Less good / 1 - Poor

Rubber products in SBR - Styrene rubber

Styrene rubber is used for the manufacture of a range of different products for various industries and can be used for similar applications as natural rubber. Below are some examples of typical products manufactured in styrene rubber:

Tires: Styrene rubber is an important component in tire manufacturing. Its elastic properties, wear resistance and friction make it a suitable material for durable and safe tires for passenger cars (not trucks), motorcycles and bicycles.

Seals and gaskets: Styrene rubber is often used when molding seals and gaskets. The material's good properties when it comes to temperatures and pressures make it a reliable material when sealing and safety are a high priority.

Industrial hoses: Styrene rubber is used in the manufacture of industrial hoses. Industrial hoses are used for the transport of various liquids and gases in the chemical industry, the oil industry and the food industry. Styrene rubber's properties make it a reliable material to ensure safe and efficient media handling.

Rubber profiles: When manufacturing rubber profiles for building and construction applications, styrene rubber is often used. The rubber profiles are used to protect and seal in industrial applications such as machines, cabinets and doors.

Rubber mats and floor surfaces: Styrene rubber is used in the manufacture of rubber mats and floor surfaces for various purposes where non-slip properties, insulation and noise reduction are sought. These carpets are often found in industrial and commercial environments such as warehouses, gyms, hotels and homes.

Rubber band products: Styrene rubber is used to manufacture various types of elastic bands and rubber bands. These are used in a wide range of applications such as packaging, office supplies and household items.

Above are only a few examples of the many products that are manufactured with styrene rubber. In summary, it can be said that styrene rubber has good elastic properties and wear resistance, which makes it a versatile material and a good complement to natural rubber.
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