Cis14polybutadiene

Cis14polybutadiene is a synthetic rubber characterized by a high proportion of cis-1,4 microstructure. This specific molecular arrangement is crucial to its properties. It is produced through the polymerization of butadiene monomers, typically using Ziegler-Natta catalysts or other organometallic catalyst systems. The primary advantage of cis-14polybutadiene lies in its excellent elasticity, resilience, and low glass transition temperature, which allows it to remain flexible at very low temperatures. This makes it a valuable component in applications where low-temperature performance is critical. It exhibits good abrasion resistance and low hysteresis, meaning it loses less energy as heat when repeatedly deformed. However, its resistance to ozone and weathering is generally poor, often requiring the addition of protective additives like antioxidants and antiozonants when used in outdoor or demanding environments. Cis14polybutadiene is commonly blended with other elastomers, such as natural rubber or styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), to modify their properties. It finds widespread use in tire manufacturing, particularly in sidewalls and treads where its resilience and low-temperature flexibility are beneficial. Other applications include impact modification for plastics, vibration damping devices, and various industrial rubber goods.