In the 1930s, when rubber became one of the essential commodities, selection was never a problem because we had only Natural Rubber (NR) that time. Today, beyond 2010, there are number of elastomers are being used in the industry and the choice is typically important with respect to the competitive advantage of both, durability in the service and cost.

 

NR was called rubber because it could have rubbed out pencil mark. When other synthetic rubbers were produced, they had also similar property of rubbing out pencil mark, but were called elastomers because NR was then typically identified as Rubber. However, both NR and other synthetic rubber (SR) together are called elastomers, because they had typical elastic properties and interestingly, all rubber and elastomers are high polymers. From the time 1930 , industries have increased many folds of time. Engineering requirement in the manufacturing industries, with respect to temperature, pressure and durability have also simultaneously increased and our demand on the applications have also been increased.

CAPTION Fig.1: Asia Pacific Total Elastomers (54%), NR+SR

 

With very competitive demand in the market, all rubber properties cannot be achieved only by NR. Balancing critical demand for rubber applications, that we require in our day to day life, use of SR or blending with SR has become very common practice in the industry today.

 

For example, other than pneumatic tyre, there is hardly any uses of NR these days in automotive industries. Uses of various grades of EPDM, Silicone rubber (Q), Nitrile rubber(NBR), Fluoro Elastomers (FKM) , Perfluoro Elastomers (FFKM) , Hydrogeneted Nitrile rubber (HNBR), Chlorosulphonated Polyethylen (CSM), Polychloroprene(CR) , Polyurethane Rubber (AU/EU), Fluorosilicone Silicone Rubber (FQ) etc. have been increased due to typical automotive parts requirement. Since automobile spares are now mostly manufactured in Asia Pacific countries, they are the largest consumer of total elastomers (Fig.1).

 

CAPTION Fig.2: Only SBR is the highest (47%) synthetic rubber

 

After NR, the next high consuming elastomer is SBR (Fig.2) because of its higher filler and oil loading capability and higher abrasion resistant quality. After SBR, the next high quantity rubber used is BR, followed by IIR (BIIR,CIIR) and EPDM. Recently silicone rubber uses have increased many fold times in Western countries, China, Japan, Korea and in India. However, the total SR uses remains highest in Asia Pacific(Fig.3).

 

CAPTION Fig.3: Asia Pacific Highest Consumer of SR (48%)

 

In critical applications, it is therefore, advisable to give considerable thought, or take advice, on the formulation of the compound. As the potential for 'tailoring' compound to specific applications is essentially limitless, it is often advisable to carry out preliminary qualification tests to ensure that the compound chosen will perform as intended by customer need.

A considerable thought in critical applications, for the formulation of the specific compound need considerable experience with selecting raw materials and art of processing. Very common mistakes by rubber compounder is mostly related to incorrect selection of (1) ingredients, (2) their doses, (3) rubber blends and (4) correct machines. Rubber compounding is an art of developing rubber mixtures with suitable raw material and their doses, that will perform in desired services but with minimum cost possible such that product can be competitive in the market and can be processed well in machines without any difficulties faced by man and machines.

 

There are broadly two classes of Rubbers or elastomers, they are Natural Rubber (NR) and Synthetic Rubber (SR). NR occurs naturally in the plant and hence the name but all synthetic rubbers are man made rubbers and are produced by chemical synthesis. Among the Synthetic elastomers, there is again two category; one is general purpose rubbers (GPR),which can be used as equivalent to NR, e.g., Butadiene Rubber (PBR) and Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) and the other category is specialty elastomers. Specialty elastomers are generally costlier than GPR and are only used in special purpose. Following are the list of specialty elastomers ,which are widely being used in rubber industry beyond 2000:

 

Butyl Rubber (IIR), Chlorobutyl Rubber (CIIR), Bromobutyl Rubber (BIIR), Chlorinated Polyethylene(CM), Chlorosulphonated Polyethylen (CSM), Ethylene Acrylic(EEA) , Ethylene Propylene Rubber(EPM) , Ethylene Propylene Diene Rubber(EPDM), Fluoro elastomers (FKM), Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber (HNBR), Isoprene Rubber (IR), Nitrile Rubber(NBR) ,  Polyacrylic Rubber (ACM), Perfluoro Elastomers (FFKM), Polychloroprene (CR) , Polysulphide Rubber (TR) , Polyolefin Elastomer (POE),   Polyurethane Rubber (AU/EU) , Silicone Rubber(Q), Fluorosilicone   Silicone Rubber (FQ) etc.

 

Elastomers having carbon-carbon double bond on the elastomeric backbone could be cross-linked with sulphur and accelerators. Many of these elastomers are also could be cured with organic peroxides, examples are NR,SBR,BR, AU/EU, CM, CR,CSM,EPM,EPDM,FPM,NBR,HNBR,IR,POE,Q,FQ. Elastomers that cannot be cured with organic peroxides are; ACM,IIR,CIIR,BIIR,ECO.

 

Rubber compounding

 

Rubber compounding is an art of developing rubber mixtures with suitable raw material and their doses, that will perform in desired services but with minimum cost possible such that product can be competitive in the market and can be processed well in machines without any difficulties faced by man and machines. In all rubber industry today, the biggest challenge is cost reduction of a good quality product. During selecting raw materials, therefore, the cost of these will also play a vital role in compound designing.

 

A rubber product might require desired physical properties and ageing properties. For this one need to add particular reinforcing filler or a suitable combination of reinforcing fillers to have desired physical properties. The typical ageing resistant property may be achieved with only NR by adding suitable anti-degradants or, NR could also be blended with synthetic elastomers with better ageing resistant property. NR being cheaper and easily available it is the first choice having good strength, abrasion , tear strength and low heat development in dynamic condition. A synthetic rubber product might require good green strength , in that case either NR or blend of rubber is the choice. For example, for better green strength of CIIR, it is often blended with NR.

 

CAPTION Fig.4: Turn-up Bladders

 

A rubber product may require a specific need , say air retention property or oil resistance property. For the former case the choice is essentially butyl rubber (or, halobutyl rubber , CIIR,BIIR) and for the later it is usually, NBR/HNBR and for both oil resistance and air impermeability, the usual choice is NBR / HNBR rubber (Turn-up bladder for tyre building operation, Fig.4). For a typical product, if the property demands oil resistance at 200 ⁰C, then the choice is FKM (Fluoroelastomers) or Q. For resistance upto 328 ⁰C , it is FFKM.

CAPTION Fig.5: Typical Industrial Gaskets

 

Heat resistance property is typically related to product durability and sustainability at desired temperature and is very important for various industrial gaskets (Fig.5). For temperature resistant rubber compounding and following temperature resistance of the polymer is important, NR ~ 65 °C, SBR ~ 75 °C, NBR ~ 110 °C, HNBR ~ 180 °C, Q ~ 200 °C+, FKM ~ 240 °C, FFKM ~ 328 °C. The temperature ranges quoted are only a rough guide, because the temperature resistant property also depend on the typical compound design as well, depends upon the particular application, and may depend on detailed differences between alternative versions of the same rubber.

 

Rubber compound is always developed as per customer need. For any rubber article, the first choice is the selection of right rubber. Rubber is selected mostly on the basis of :

 

• Cost
• Heat and/or Oil Resistance
• Temperature Requirements
• Energy Absorption
• Seal Ability
• Flex Resistance
• Water Resistance
• Gas Impermeability
• Electrical Properties
• Abrasion Resistances
• Dynamic Properties
• Flame Resistance

 

Rubber compound related definitions

 

• Elastomer, a polymeric material that recovers substantially to its original shape after significant deformation at room temperature.
• Compound, a mixture of elastomer and other materials that is intended to process (mold) satisfactorily and meet end-use specifications.
• Filler, a particulate material added to an elastomer that modifies both the workability and the end-use behavior of the resulting composition.
• Plasticizer, a material added to an elastomer to improve its workability.
• Resins are added to improve rubber tack.
• Waxes also used as plasticizer , are also added for smooth finish of rubber articles.
• Antioxidant, a chemical added to a compound to slow or prevent oxygen attack on the compound.
• Antiozonant, a chemical added to a compound to prevent ozone attack.
• Cross linking agent, a chemical added to a compound to link the long molecules in a polymer together, or to assist in the cross-linking process.
• Accelerator, a chemical added to a compound to increase the rate of cross-linking in the compound.
• For example, sulfur links the long molecules, while an accelerator increases the cross-linking rate.
• Retarder, a material added to an elastomer compound to delay the onset of cross linking (scorch).
• Vulcanization is same as cross-linking but with sulphur.
• Peroxide also helps in cross-linking process.

 

 

Elastomer blends

 

Elastomer blends often creates problem when two different types of unsaturated rubbers are mixed and vulcanized together. For example, NR and IIR have two different unsaturation level and hence both sulphur , ZnO and black flows more towards polar rubber, on NR phase, and results undercure in IIR phase and the resultant blend vulcanizate becomes spongy and cannot be used.

 

GPR (NR,SBR,BR) rubber could be blended to any proportion. For higher synthetic rubber level (BR,SBR) , accelerators dose is often adjusted to higher side and sulpur level is adjusted to lower side, because for equivalent curing, BR, SBR requires more accelerators as compared to NR. Stearic acid is added 2-3 phr with only synthetic elastomer and for NR, stearic acid dose of 0.5 phr is enough.

 

CAPTION Fig.6 : Micro Dispersion of Rubber Blends

 

Practically most of the polymers are not miscible to 100%, polymer blends usually consist of micro-dispersion of one rubber into the other rubber and this results after intensive mixing of these two different polymers. These micro dispersed rubber often has dimensions around 0.1-1.5 nm(Fig.6). When fillers are also mixed into such blends, a situation may develop in which the filler unevenly distributed between two phases. Such uneven distribution of fillers, naturally effects the uniformity of compound physical properties. In most blends the effect on the properties of blended elastomers depend on:

 

1. The polymer compatibility
2.  Distribution of fillers in different phases and
3. The degree of cross-links between rubber phases

 

Though NR,SBR,BR could be blended to any proportion , yet the blended phases are not compatible to hundred percent and there is also phase separation, where, on proper identification one can witness that there is phase separation with NR & SBR, NR & BR, BR & SBR. However, upon proper mixing these phase differences could be minimized (Fig.7) such that the resultant blend gets cured almost homogeneously . That is why very highly dispersed NR (5 to 10 parts) could also be co-cured with IIR.

 

 

CAPTION Fig.7 : Well Dispersed Rubber Blends

 

 IIR cannot be blended with GPR but can be blended with EPDM (having ENB diene content between 2-3 mole%) to any proportion. Higher diene content EPDM rubber (ENB, >9.0% mole) could be well blended with GPR. If high diene content EPDM is blended with IIR, filler, sulphur, accelerator and zinc oxide flows more towards EPDM than IIR. IIR could be blended with CIIR and BIIR to any proportion. Such blend is often used in making tyre inner-tubes and hose jacket compounds. When CIIR and BIIR doses are on the higher side with IIR (>60phr) it is worthwhile that zinc oxide is added in the final batch since zinc oxide is curative for CIIR & BIIR.

 

Besides zinc oxides, CIIR and BIIR can also be cured with sulphur/accelerator system as well. However, for very good heat resistant property, they are often cured with ZnO. Highly dispersed plastic (LDPE) could also be blended with CIIR/BIIR with no detrimental effect but with improvement on air permeability.

 

CIIR and BIIR could be blended to any proportion with GPR. Such blend is often used in tyre inner liner. When CIIR and BIIR doses are on the higher side (>60phr) both zinc oxide and amine type anioxidant/antioxonates are added in final batches as these are curatives in CIIR and BIIR.CIIR blend with GPR and EPDM is used in PC sidewall for glossy finish sidewall and addition of CIIR also help to reduce the curing time of PC tyre. Blend of EPDM/NR/SBR and EPDM/NR/SBR/CIIR are often used in tyre side wall compound for better look.

 

CR rubber is not normally blended in the industry as it is mostly used in adhesive industry. However, they can be blended to any proportion with GPR. In adhesive industry crystallinity is important and CR gives the highest degree of crystallinity among all general-purpose rubber. CR could be blended with IIR , close to 5-15 phr, for bladder making and in general, only 5.0 phr is added in the beginning of the mixing cycle.

 

In bladder mixing, Zinc oxide could be mixed with CR in master batch. CR is premasticated in mixing mill for making bladder compound, before adding in Banbury.CR/BR blend is used in hose covers.CR could also be blended with GPR at any proportion like CIIR. Both zinc oxide and amine type antioxidant / antioxonates are added in final batches as these are curatives in CR and CIIR.

 

In general Silicone rubber (MQ,PMQ,VMQ) cannot be blended with any other rubber because of phase difference problem but highly dispersed EPDM could be blended with it upto 10 -15 phr. EPDM/Q blend is used in heat resistant cover roll compound.

 

EPDM, being a good elastomer as weather resistant and heat resistant is often blended with number of other elastomers to get the benefit of the vulcanisates.

EPDM/CR blend are very popular in making gaskets. EPDM/IR blend is widely used in car wiper rubber blades. EPDM/SBR blends are used in gaskets, sponges and hose stocks. EPDM/CSM blend is used in transmission belt, conveyor belt and in hose covers. EPDM/LDPE blend is very popular in making cable insulation compound.

 

NBR in general, is not blended with other elastomers as this rubber having higher degree of polarity , is exclusively used for oil resistance property. It may have acrylonitrile content ( ACN) ranging from 18-50%. Incase of higher oil resistance, the elastomeric grade is selected with higher ACN. For better abrasion however, 10-20 phr of BR could be added to NBR with the aid of good dispersing agents , used in shoe sole, high abrasion resistance rolls and in conveyer belts. Higher ACN content will have better abrasion property. NBR could be cured both by sulphur/accelerators or by peroxides. Hydrgenated NBR (HNBR) has emerged into market with better heat resistant property as compared to NBR. For intermediate heat resistant property NBR and HNBR could be blended.

 

NBR/SBR blends used in hydraulic hose tubes, high pressure hose, belt cover, idler roll compounds and in gasket compounds. NBR/PVC blend and NBR/PVC/BR blend are used for roll cover compound, very popular in electric cable insulation and in closed cell sponge applications in shoe industry. XNBR/PVC blend is used for heavy duty cable jackets, roller cover, belt cover, hose cover stocks etc. NBR/IR blend and NBR/TR blend is popular in colored or non-black roll covers. The later is mostly used in printing roll cover compound.

Nouryon, a leading supplier of organic peroxides and a developer of organic peroxide solutions, has formally announced the completion of capacity expansion of its organic peroxides manufacturing facility in Ningbo, China.

The company's production capacity for Perkadox 14 and Trigonox 101 organic peroxide products, which are crucial components for altering polymer characteristics and crosslinking rubbers and thermoplastics, has increased to 6,000 tonnes each as a result of this capacity expansion. Furthermore, by improving the qualities of recycled polypropylene (R-PP), these solutions can also allow consumers to employ recycled polymers in applications that were previously exclusive to virgin plastics.

Alain Rynwalt, Senior Vice President – Performance Materials, Nouryon, said, “Nouryon is a world leader in essential ingredients for the polymer industry and this expansion highlights our dedication to supporting our customers’ growth across the entire polymer cycle. Customer interest in improving the properties of recycled polypropylene continues to rise, in line with increased consumer awareness and more stringent regulations.”

Sobers Sethi, Senior Vice President – Emerging Markets and China, Nouryon, said, “Asia Pacific is a key region for Nouryon and our most recent expansion in China strengthens our supply position even more in this growing region. Our customers rely on our existing network of manufacturing facilities and innovative technologies, and we are pleased to build more capacity to meet growing customer demand around the world.”

Trinseo, a speciality materials solutions provider, has signed agreements to supply its polycarbonate technology license as well as all proprietary polycarbonate production equipment in Stade, Germany to Deepak Chem Tech Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Deepak Nitrite Limited, a diversified chemical intermediates company based in Vadodara, Gujarat, India.

The combined deals are worth USD 52.5 million. Subject to significant milestones, the business anticipates receiving around USD 9 million by the end of 2024 and an additional USD 21 million in the first part of 2025. The firm has made the decision to leave Stade, Germany, with this disposal of the production assets.

Frank Bozich, President and Chief Executive Officer, Trinseo, said, “While Trinseo recently announced its decision to exit virgin polycarbonate production, our polycarbonate technology is highly valued and the manufacturing equipment in Stade, Germany, can be utilised in India by Deepak. These are the initial steps of a strategic, collaborative partnership with Deepak, as we explore additional opportunities to leverage our technology portfolio and expand in higher-growth areas such as India.”

China's butadiene exports have experienced significant growth in recent years, particularly in 2021 and 2024. According to Sublime China Information (SCI), this surge is primarily driven by supply constraints in key regions, including the US and Southeast Asia.

Export Volume and Price Trends

In 2021, China's butadiene exports reached a historic high due to a supply gap in the US market. According to SCI, this trend continued in 2024 as reduced deep-sea cargo shipments and production challenges in Southeast Asia further tightened global supplies. From January to September 2024, China's total butadiene exports surged by 111 percent year-over-year to approximately 120.8 kilo tonnes.

The average export price of butadiene has fluctuated over the past five years. In 2023, weak demand in South Korea and competition from deep-sea cargoes led to a significant decline in export prices. However, in 2024, supply shortages from key regions drove prices to a five-year high. As of September 2024, the average export price reached USD 1,391 per metric ton, a 35 percent month-over-month increase, added SCI.

Export Destinations and Regional Dynamics

The majority of China's butadiene exports are directed to South Korea and Taiwan. In 2024, South Korea accounted for 74 percent of total exports, a significant increase from the previous year. This surge was driven by factors such as limited domestic supply and increased demand for spot butadiene.

While China's butadiene exports have been strong, the long-term potential for significant growth in deep-sea exports remains limited due to established supply chains and regional demand dynamics. Most of China's exports are currently concentrated in Northeast Asia, with limited opportunities for expansion into other regions.

Future Outlook

SCI added that 2025 China's butadiene supply is expected to be relatively sufficient, and export volumes may increase further. However, the sustained growth of exports will depend on various factors, including downstream demand in key markets, the availability of deep-sea cargoes, and the development of new production capacities in other regions.

Despite these uncertainties, China's butadiene industry is well-positioned to capitalize on global supply-demand imbalances and continue to play a significant role in the global market.

Cabot Corporation, a global speciality chemicals and performance materials company, has announced through an official statement that it will raise prices globally for carbon black products sold by its speciality carbons business. The price rise will be global and will come into effect for all shipments on or after 1 December 2024, or as contracts allow.

The company claims that the price rise is necessary owing to the impact of inflation on labour, maintenance and other production activities, as well as supply chain-related expenditures. The price increase will vary depending on the product and region.

The statement further elaborates that these price adjustments will help the company remain a dependable, long-term provider of high-quality products and services to its consumers. Cabot also underlined its commitment to guaranteeing supply security and the best service standards for its clients, as well as providing technological and process improvements and moving forward with its environmental goals.