What is acrylonitrile butadiene rubber used for?

Acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) is a popular synthetic rubber with a wide range of applications in various industries. But what exactly is it used for? Let's dive into this versatile material.

Acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) is widely used in automotive, industrial, and oil industries. Its resistance to oils, fuels, and chemicals makes it indispensable for sealing and gaskets.

Now that you know the basic uses of NBR, let's explore its properties and safety concerns. Understanding the key characteristics of this rubber will help you make better-informed decisions.

What is acrylonitrile butadiene rubber?

Have you ever wondered what makes acrylonitrile butadiene rubber¹ (NBR) so special? This synthetic rubber has a unique blend of properties that set it apart from other materials.

Acrylonitrile butadiene rubber² (NBR) is a copolymer made from acrylonitrile and butadiene. This combination provides excellent resistance to oils, fuels, and chemicals, making it ideal for various industrial uses.

NBR³ is produced by polymerizing a mixture of acrylonitrile and butadiene. The ratio of acrylonitrile content in NBR can vary, impacting the rubber's resistance to oils and fuels. Typically, higher acrylonitrile content improves the rubber's resistance to oils but reduces its low-temperature flexibility. NBR is commonly used in gaskets, seals, fuel hoses, and O-rings, where exposure to oils and chemicals is frequent. The versatility of NBR comes from its ability to be tailored for specific applications by adjusting the ratio of its components. Here’s a closer look at the properties of NBR based on different acrylonitrile content:

By adjusting the acrylonitrile content, manufacturers can create a rubber that suits different needs, balancing between chemical resistance and flexibility.

Is butadiene rubber natural?

Is butadiene rubber a natural material? Let's take a closer look at the differences between natural and synthetic rubbers and where butadiene rubber fits in.

Butadiene rubber (BR) is not a natural rubber; it is a synthetic polymer derived from petroleum. Although it's made from a natural compound (butadiene), it's chemically processed to create the final product.

Natural rubber, or latex, is derived from the sap of rubber trees, while butadiene rubber is synthesized from petroleum by-products. The key difference lies in the production process. Butadiene is a by-product of the refining of petroleum, which is then polymerized to form butadiene rubber. While both natural and synthetic rubbers share similar properties, synthetic rubbers like butadiene rubber offer advantages in terms of durability and resistance to chemicals, heat, and oils. Butadiene rubber is primarily used in the automotive industry, in tires, seals, and hoses, due to its superior abrasion resistance.

Is butadiene rubber safe?

Is butadiene rubber safe for use in everyday applications? Let’s examine its safety profile in more detail.

Butadiene rubber is generally safe to use in most industrial and commercial applications. However, its production involves handling toxic chemicals, so it must be processed and used according to safety guidelines.

When discussing the safety of butadiene rubber, it's important to separate its production process from its final use. Butadiene, the chemical used to make butadiene rubber, is classified as a hazardous substance, and exposure to it during the manufacturing process should be avoided. However, once polymerized into rubber, butadiene rubber is stable and safe to use in most applications, including those in contact with food, fuel, and chemicals. In fact, NBR, which includes butadiene, is often used for medical equipment and food-grade products because it can be safely handled and doesn’t leach harmful substances when properly processed. As with all industrial materials, safety depends on proper handling, storage, and disposal, which is why it's important to follow regulatory guidelines for its use.

What is acrylonitrile butadiene rubber used for?

What makes acrylonitrile butadiene rubber so valuable across different industries? Let's dive into its diverse applications and discover why it's a go-to material for many.

Acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) is widely used in applications requiring resistance to oils, fuels, and chemicals. Its applications range from automotive parts to industrial seals and gaskets.

NBR's unique properties make it ideal for specific uses where resistance to harsh chemicals, oils, and high temperatures is required. In the automotive industry, NBR is used in seals, fuel hoses, and gaskets due to its ability to withstand exposure to oils and fuels. In the oil and gas industry, it’s used for seals and gaskets in harsh environments where chemical resistance is paramount. NBR’s excellent resistance to wear and tear also makes it ideal for industrial applications, such as in rollers, gaskets, and O-rings. It's also used in food processing equipment, as it can be formulated to meet food-grade standards.

Here’s a list of some key industries and applications where NBR is commonly used:

Its versatility allows it to be customized for different environments, making NBR a go-to material for industries requiring durable, chemical-resistant components.

Conclusion

Acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) is a highly versatile material with a wide range of industrial applications. Its resistance to oils, fuels, and chemicals makes it indispensable for many industries.