WHAT IS IT?
Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) is a synthetic rubber copolymer made from styrene and butadiene. It is the most widely produced synthetic rubber globally, primarily competing with and complementing natural rubber in tyre manufacturing.
TYPES
E-SBR (Emulsion SBR): Produced via emulsion polymerisation. Older technology. Used in passenger car tyres, mechanical goods, footwear.
S-SBR (Solution SBR): Produced via solution polymerisation with precise molecular control. Higher performance. Required for EU tyre label A/B wet grip rating. Growing share as regulations tighten.
SBR vs NATURAL RUBBER
SBR: Better abrasion resistance, consistent supply, lower rolling resistance (with S-SBR), synthetic (no agricultural risk)
Natural Rubber: Better heat dissipation (essential for truck tyres and aircraft), higher tear strength, superior cut resistance
Both are used in most performance tyres — typically 60–70% natural rubber for the main structural components, SBR for the tread
KEY USES
Tyre tread (primary use — ~60% of SBR)
Conveyor belts
Automotive parts and seals
Footwear soles
Adhesives and sealants
Asphalt modification (SBR latex for road surfacing)
FEEDSTOCKS
SBR price depends on: Styrene price (from benzene + ethylene) + Butadiene price (from steam cracker C4 fraction).
TRADE CORRIDORS
Major producers: China, South Korea (KUMHO), Germany (LANXESS), Russia (Synthez-Kauchuk), Japan
Major buyers: Tyre manufacturers globally (Michelin, Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear)
Tetra relevance: South Korea is a major SBR producer.
SPECIFICATIONS (E-SBR 1502 — most common grade)
Styrene content: 23.5%
Mooney viscosity (ML 1+4 at 100°C): 52 ± 5
Ash content: max 0.5%
Volatile matter: max 0.75%
Form: bales (25kg or 35kg)