polübutadieeni

Polybutadiene is a synthetic rubber made from the polymerization of 1,3-butadiene. It is one of the most widely produced synthetic rubbers globally due to its excellent elasticity and abrasion resistance. The properties of polybutadiene can be significantly influenced by the type of catalyst used during its production, leading to different microstructures such as cis-1,4, trans-1,4, and vinyl-1,2 configurations.

High cis-1,4 polybutadiene is particularly valued for its high resilience, low hysteresis, and excellent resistance to wear and tear, making it a primary component in tire manufacturing, especially for sidewalls and treads where these properties are crucial for performance and durability. It is often blended with other rubbers like styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) to achieve a balance of properties.

Trans-1,4 polybutadiene, while less common, exhibits greater hardness and higher glass transition temperature. Vinyl-1,2 polybutadiene is known for its enhanced oil resistance and ability to be vulcanized by sulfur, offering unique processing characteristics. Polybutadiene finds applications beyond tires in areas such as impact modification for plastics like polystyrene and ABS, as well as in the production of golf ball cores and hoses. Its versatility and cost-effectiveness contribute to its widespread industrial importance.