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Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR)

Styrene-butadiene rubber, SBR, was invented as high-volume synthetic substitute for natural rubber during World War II because of its suitability for use in tires. SBR is known for its wear and abrasion resistance. Besides the tire industry, styrene-butadiene rubber is also used to produce shoe heels, shoe soles, and many other products.

REDCO is your go-to USA-owned and operated rubber manufacturer. Our expert team performs all testing and services in-house and on-site, and we always work hard to guarantee you receive accurate products on time and within budget. Call 775-882-3100 today to learn more about how REDCO can support your operations through high-quality custom-manufactured synthetic rubber products.

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Properties of Styrene-Butadiene Rubber

Styrene-butadiene rubber is one of the most popular rubber materials in the world. This petroleum-based co-polymer is formed of 25% styrene and 75% butadiene. The styrene works to lower the overall material cost and adds bonding capabilities.

SBR Characteristics

SBR shares several characteristics with natural rubber material, including its chemical resistance. It’s a general-purpose material that is a cost-effective solution for products across sectors. SBR features:

Specific Gravity: .94
Tensile Strength, PSI—Pure Gum: 1000
Tensile Strength, PSI—Reinforced: 3000
Practical Shore A Hardness Range: 40-95

The Benefits of Choosing SBR

Low cost and high availability make styrene-butadiene rubber an excellent choice for several applications, but the benefits don’t end there. SBR also offers high tensile strength, high impact strength, and good overall resilience. Other advantages include:

Excellent to good resistance to moisture and abrasion
Good resistance to a range of temperatures, oxidation, and oxygenated solvents
Good flexibility at low temperatures
Fair to good resistance to concentrated acid and heat
Fair to good compression set
Fair resistance to diluted acid
Fair permeability

Styrene-Butadiene Rubber’s Limitations

Despite the many advantages, versatility, and availability of SBR, it is not an ideal solution for every application. SBR products will display poor resistance to flame, atmospheric aging, hydrocarbons, oil, gasoline, and certain animal or vegetable oils. It also is slower to vulcanize when compared to natural rubber.

If SBR is not the best fit for your production, REDCO offers a range of other materials to match your specifications. Download our Properties of Rubber chart to learn more about our other options.

Applications for SBR Products

Styrene-butadiene rubber is used across sectors to manufacture a variety of products, such as:

Car tires
Belting
Wire and cable insulation
Haul-off pads
Roll coverings and custom rollers
Hoses
Gaskets and seals
Consumer goods
Carpet backing
And much, much more!

REDCO is Your Top Source for USA-Made Synthetic Rubber Products

When you choose REDCO to manufacture your synthetic rubber products, you choose strict quality control, extensive experience in rubber compounding and manufacturing, and uncompromising commitment to your total satisfaction. We are your one-stop shop for any rubber manufacturing need. From supplying initial quotes to providing ongoing support after final delivery, REDCO’s team of engineering experts is entirely at your disposal.