Synthetic rubber

Synthetic rubber is produced in several steps:

1. Polymerisation

Monomers such as butadiene or styrene are chemically polymerised to form long polymer chains.

2. Modification

The properties of the rubber can be adjusted by adding additives or using specific copolymers.

3. Vulcanisation

As with natural rubber, synthetic rubber is further processed by vulcanisation to improve its mechanical strength and elasticity.

There are numerous types of synthetic rubber, developed for different applications:

Type	Properties	Typical applications
Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR)	High abrasion resistance, good ageing resistance	Tyres, conveyor belts
Butyl rubber (IIR)	Excellent gas tightness, weather-resistant	Hoses, seals
Ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM)	UV- and ozone-resistant, elastic	Roof seals, sealing profiles
Fluororubber (FKM, Viton®)	Heat-resistant, chemically resistant	Seals, hoses in the chemical industry
Chloroprene rubber (CR, Neoprene®)	Resistant to oil and weathering	Protective clothing, cable sheathing

Synthetic rubber offers a wide range of properties that make it ideal for numerous applications:

• High elasticity: like natural rubber, it returns to its original shape after deformation.

• Improved resistance: withstands chemical influences, ozone and UV radiation better than natural rubber.

• Temperature stability: remains functional at high or low temperatures.

• Adjustable properties: the choice of monomers and additives allows the properties to be matched exactly to the requirements.

Synthetic rubber is used in numerous industries:

Automotive industry

• Tyres: SBR is widely used for treads to ensure abrasion resistance and grip.

• Seals: EPDM provides weather-resistant door and window seals.

• Hoses: butyl rubber and fluororubber are used for fuel and coolant hoses.

Construction industry

• Seals: EPDM is used for flat roof waterproofing and window profiles.

• Floor coverings: SBR rubber granules are used for non-slip floors.

Electrical and electronics industry

• Cable sheathing: neoprene protects against moisture and chemical influences.

• Insulation: synthetic rubber is used as an electrical insulator.

Chemical industry

• Seals: fluororubber withstands aggressive chemicals and high temperatures.

• Hoses: resistant to acids, alkalis and solvents.

Synthetic rubber offers numerous advantages over natural rubber:

• Higher resistance: better resistance to weathering, UV radiation and chemicals.

• Adaptability: the properties can be tailored to specific requirements.

• Cost efficiency: stable production without dependence on natural raw materials.

• Wide temperature range: can be used in extremely hot or cold environments.

Despite its advantages, there are also challenges:

• Production costs: production is more expensive than for natural rubber, especially for specialised types.

• Environmental aspects: production can be energy-intensive, and synthetic materials are not biodegradable.

• Compatibility: for some applications, the elasticity of natural rubber is preferred.

• What are the main differences between natural rubber and synthetic rubber? Synthetic rubber offers better resistance to weathering and chemicals, while natural rubber has higher elasticity and lower costs.

• Is synthetic rubber environmentally friendly? It is not biodegradable, but it can be made more environmentally friendly through recycling and sustainable production methods.

• What temperatures can synthetic rubber withstand? Depending on the type, temperatures from -40 °C to +300 °C can be tolerated.

• Can synthetic rubber be recycled? Yes, synthetic rubber can be converted into granules and reused for applications such as floor coverings.

Synthetic rubber is an indispensable material in modern industry. Its adjustable properties, resilience and versatility make it a preferred choice in numerous applications, from tyres and seals to cable sheathing and special hoses. Despite some challenges, synthetic rubber remains a key component in material development.