What is SBR Used For?

One of the most produced rubber materials globally is synthetic rubber SBR, widely due to its affordability. It plays a crucial role in applications ranging from automotive to construction, where resilience and performance are essential. It is commonly used to replace natural rubber products due to its enhanced abrasion resistance, durability, and cost factors. Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) is widely used as a key material in car tires as it can withstand wear and tear of road friction for a long time due to its excellent abrasion resistance. It is also popular for industries requiring hoses, gaskets, or seals. Also, it is a critical component in producing conveyor belts and electrical wire insulation.

Like many other elastomers, SBR’s creation was driven by the need for wartime materials during World War II. More specifically, SBR synthetic rubber’s creation directly responded to the shortage of natural rubber caused by World War II. With Japan and the Axis powers dominating regions rich in natural rubber trees, the German government actively pursued the development of a synthetic substitute to meet the demands of war and everyday products. The initial breakthrough came in 1929 when German chemists at I.G. Farbenindustrie AG created a butadiene polymer using sodium as the catalyst, named “Buna.” Germany used Buna rubber to produce military tires, vehicle parts, gaskets, and other essential equipment to support its war machinery. Later on, during the War, the United States built off on “Buna” and introduced a copolymer of butadiene and styrene for rubber production, known as “Buna S.” This version of SBR rolled rubber was widely known as ‘Government Rubber-Styrene’ (GR-S) and was used extensively during wartime to produce wartime supplies like tires, tank treads, and wire insulation.

SBR shares some similarities with natural rubber, but its production process and chemical composition are fundamentally different. Natural rubber is latex-based and is collected from the white sap of rubber trees. In contrast, SBR is a type of synthetic rubber produced through the copolymerization of two petroleum-based monomers – styrene and butadiene. The chemical composition of synthetic SBR rubber is approximately 75% butadiene and 25% styrene. Its balance of mechanical strength, abrasion resistance, and, most importantly, affordability has allowed it to replace or be used along with natural rubber. Today, SBR is frequently blended with natural rubber. This combination is widely used to manufacture tires, shoe soles, lacrosse balls, and other products that require strong resistance to tearing and abrasion.

While synthetic SBR rubber is excellent for applications requiring abrasion resistance and mechanical strength, it is unsuitable for those needing high elasticity or temperature resistance, such as high-temperature gaskets. It is notably weaker when compared to other elastomers like nitrile and EPDM against oil, water, ozone, and extreme temperatures. These weaknesses can be addressed by blending SBR with different rubber compounds and strengthening its properties. For example, Rubber-Cal’s Heavy Black Conveyor Belt – 3ply is a blend of synthetic elastomers like neoprene, nitrile, and SBR, which gives it a stronger resistance to oils and chemicals. This blend of synthetic elastomers also allows it to endure higher working temperatures.

Heavy Black Conveyor Belt – 3ply – 0.41″ x 38″

• Working temperature range of -20° F to 200° F
• Available in custom specifications to suit your applications
• Rubber belt conveyor roll available in up to 250 feet continuous

Cloth-Inserted Rubber: The unique and distinguishing feature about the rubber conveyor belt is that the rubber material is impregnated with a cloth fabric. It is a synthetic fabric material that greatly reduces the amount that the rubber can stretch. This gives the rubber belt conveyor a more solid and stable form. The presence of this fabric inside the rubber makes this reinforced rubber ideal for mechanical fastening applications where the rubber part needs to keep its form and not drag or deform over time. We offer this material in a 2ply (two fabric sheets) and a 3ply (three fabric sheets) option.

Chemical Resistance: Thanks to the unique blend of different synthetic rubbers in this product, it will exhibit a stronger resistance to oils and chemicals than most other elastomers. While the SBR gives this cloth-inserted rubber a better degree of physical durability, the neoprene and nitrile rubbers enhance other characteristics. The nitrile rubber allows the heavy rubber conveyor belt to resist natural and synthetic oils and other petroleum based solvents. Neoprene brings its excellent all-around chemical resistance traits to make this rubber resist the degrading effects of several chemicals.

Heavy Black Conveyor Belt – 3ply – 0.41″ x 38″

Is SBR Waterproof?

Synthetic SBR rubber is water-resistant, making it a dependable choice for protecting structures and equipment from water damage and helping reduce the need for costly repairs in the future. Its underwater performance is enhanced further when blended with other elastomers. For example, Rubber-Cal’s SBR – Red – 65A is a blend of natural rubber and SBR, making it an excellent option for gasket applications requiring hot and cold-water resistance. The blend of synthetic SBR rubber and natural rubber enhances the material’s durability, making it an effective solution for protection against water damage and minimizing the risk of mold or biological growth due to excess moisture. When it comes to oil exposure, it is ideal for moderate oil exposure, such as corn or fish oil, but less suitable for applications with high exposure to hydrocarbon oils, such as petrol or diesel. Besides being functionally impressive, the vibrant red color of these rubber sheets (red, grey and black) adds an aesthetic element, offering functionality and visual appeal to a range of applications like gaskets or general-purpose flapping.

SBR – Red – 65A – 3/32″ x 36″

SBR – Red – 65A – 3/32″ x 36″

• Available for custom fabrication
• Works well in temperatures between -10° F and 195° F

Strong Rubber Material: With a high durometer rating of 60-70, this red sheet rubber material is well suited to performing in industrial applications that may be physically abrasive. It is meant to be used wherever a sturdy bumper or gasket is required. These hard rubber sheets are only moderately flexible, but they make up for this with their increased resistance to physical indentation. They are good at keeping their form, giving them a longer life for whatever application they may be used in. The styrene butadiene rubber used in this rubber sheet’s construction contributes to its superior durability.

Aesthetic Appeal: Sometimes the physical aesthetics of a product matter a lot. A particular job may call for a particular color from a component. This is why we offer this rubber roll material in red. It comes in a color variation that ranges from a darker red to a lighter red. It is simply meant to enhance the visual appeal of wherever it is used.

Waterproof Rubber Sheet: Our red sheet rubber is excellent for general gasket material that will come into contact with hot or cold water. This is partly thanks to the mix of natural rubber and styrene butadiene rubber used to make these hard rubber sheets. Rubber by itself is a fairly water resistant material. It inhibits the growth of any organic byproducts that may form as the result of excess moisture. This blended material gives your project even greater resistance to the harms posed by water.

What are the Advantages of SBR?

Synthetic SBR rubber might be the most omnipresent rubber you’ve probably never recognized. It is crucial in everyday items like rubber flooring, tires, and window seals in your home. It is a dependable material for high-stress environments, which is why it is used for conveyor belts, heavy machinery gaskets, and seals. Let’s dive deeper into some of the significant SBR advantages –

Abrasion Resistance: SBR synthetic rubber sheeting can withstand continuous contact with rough or coarse surfaces without significant wear thanks to its excellent abrasion resistance, making it perfect for high-stress environments, such as conveyor belts, tire treads, and industrial rollers. It remains well-structured and free from damage from friction, even in the most trying conditions. Synthetic rubber SBR’s abrasion resistance also contributes to its long working life, reducing the need for frequent replacements in equipment exposed to constant friction.

Non-Marking Material: Another benefit of gray synthetic SBR rubber is that it does not mark surfaces and, hence, does not leave undesired stains, streaks, or scuffs. Due to this advantage, gray SBR finds its place in applications involving workbenches, furniture padding, and protective mats used in workshops or factory floors. For example, unlike black rubber, our SBR – Gray – 65A does not leave any marks and stains, making them perfect for operations requiring a non-marking material. In environments where maintaining clean and unblemished surfaces is essential – such as assembly lines or precision tooling stations – SBR ensures surfaces remain undamaged and visually spotless, making it a necessary material for protective and functional applications.

Durability: synthetic SBR rubber boasts strength and durability, with the ability to withstand intense pressure and repeated stress without deforming. Good tensile strength ensures it can maintain its integrity under heavy operating conditions like industrial mats and conveyor belts. It also makes it an excellent option for components that endure repetitive mechanical stress while guaranteeing consistent performance.

Temperature Range: SBR rolls of rubber have a functional temperature range of -10°F to 195°F, which makes it a fit for operations requiring limited heat and cold resistance. Our SBR – Red – 65A is resilient in environments where materials must resist deformation caused by changing temperatures, especially in gasket applications. Thanks to its ability to withstand moderate temperature fluctuations, SBR is excellent for gasket applications that come in contact with hot or cold water.

Cost-Effective: synthetic SBR rubber is an economical product that provides a good price-to-performance ratio. It is cheaper than other synthetic rubbers, making it a popular choice for manufacturers looking to reduce manufacturing costs without sacrificing quality. Its durability and dependable service life further enhance its value, as it requires fewer replacements than other materials. This makes SBR an ideal option for large-scale industrial applications where cost efficiency is a priority.

Bring Your Projects To Life!

How Long Will SBR Last?

The operating life of synthetic SBR rubber depends on its application, environment, and care. Exposure to UV, ozone, and extreme temperatures influences the lifespan of SBR when used in outdoor or industrial environments. Unlike other types of synthetic rubber, such as EPDM or silicone, SBR rubber sheets do not resist UV rays and ozone strongly, causing gradual deterioration over time. SBR is less resistant to hydrocarbon oils than elastomers like nitrile. It can deteriorate over time due to oxygen and ozone in the atmosphere. However, unlike natural rubber, oxidation in SBR leads to increased interlinking in the polymer chains, causing it to harden rather than soften.

To extend its lifespan, manufacturers can put protective coatings like neoprene, EPDM, and silicone over SBR rubber sheets. Chemical additives such as antioxidants and UV stabilizers can also be used as a protective coating in applications, especially when exposed to harsh weather. Synthetic rubber SBR is an excellent choice for applications where abrasion resistance, non-making abilities, mechanical durability, moderate temperature range, and cost efficiency are essential. Choosing the correct type of SBR material, proper care, and environmental conditions can maximize its performance, ensuring it delivers value over its lifecycle.

SBR – Gray – 65A – 3/16″ x 36″

• General gasket uses
• Cost-effective applications
• Wherever general flapping is used
• Projects where non-marking is ideal or necessary
• Good for use in applications that see the presence of some chemicals, or moderately high temperatures

Non-marking Material: One benefit of gray sheet rubber is that it typically will not leave scuff marks on surfaces as opposed to other types of synthetic rubber. For this reason, Gray Sheet is a good material for workbenches and other items that can benefit from non-marking. Combined with the durable characteristic of SBR rubber, Gray Sheet is a more versatile product as opposed to some alternative synthetic elastomers. Use a gray sheet of rubber when you have an application that requires the production of a clean, mark-free item.

Resistance Qualities: In addition to being a physically durable product, Gray Sheet rubber also possesses good levels of resistance against ozone, chemicals, and elevated ambient temperatures. This quality gives this blended natural and SBR sheet rubber a degree of versatility that is hard to find in most other competing synthetic elastomers. It can perform comfortably in temperatures ranging from -10° F to 195° F. These features make gray sheet a dependable choice for more abrasive industrial applications.

SBR – Gray – 65A – 3/16″ x 36″

What is Cloth Inserted Rubber?

In addition to getting coated with different elastomers, synthetic SBR rubber’s performance can be enhanced by inserting a cloth inside the material. This cloth adds structure, prevents it from stretching, and adds tear strength to SBR rubber sheeting. Cloth inserted (CI) rubber is a specialized type of rubber with reinforced fabric layers, typically made from materials like cotton, polyester, or nylon. Inserting a rubber cloth enhances the mechanical properties of SBR sheets, making them more effective.

Sheet rubber rolls with reinforced fabric usually have higher tear strength, so they are recommended for operations like rubber curtains or flaps. Stretching a rubber sheet to secure it with bolts often causes tearing around the mounting points. Hence, the fabric reinforcement resolves this issue by strengthening the material’s structure, making it more resilient under stress. The inserted cloth improves mechanical stability, allowing for secure and long-lasting installations in demanding environments. For example, it is commonly used in pavement maintenance, where performance is key due to heavy-duty equipment and sustained friction. It is also widely used as an industrial liner to protect against chemicals, abrasions, and moderate weather conditions.

Characteristics Of Cloth Inserted Rubber

Rubber-Cal’s Cloth Inserted SBR – 70A sheet rubber roll is a durable material made from styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), known for its affordability and excellent abrasion resistance. The key feature of this rubber sheet is the cotton cloth reinforcement inserted into the material, which significantly enhances its strength and performance. Generally, for every 1/16″ of thickness, one ply of fabric is inserted, providing reinforcement that prevents stretching and adds tear strength. For instance, a 1/8″ thick sheet would feature two plies of fabric, and so on (this is true for all thicknesses except 1/4″). This fabrication makes the material ideal for mechanical fastening applications that require durability under stress.

Combining the high mechanical strength of SBR with fabric reinforcement balances strength and flexibility. It has a Shore A hardness rating of 70, giving it medium rigidity with limited flexibility, which is ideal for applications requiring dimensional stability under tension-based applications.

Cloth Inserted rubber sheets are available in various thicknesses, including 1/16 inches, 1/8 inches, 3/16 inches, and 1/4 inches thicknesses, with corresponding ply counts of 1, 2, and 3 (for both 3/16″ and 1/4″). The standard widths available are 36″, with custom widths and gauges available upon request. We offer sheets in rolls up to 50 feet long and provide custom lengths as needed. This material is also available with a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) upon request for easy application.

The Cloth Inserted SBR – 70A is ideal for heavy-duty applications, as it offers excellent mechanical fastening capabilities and superior tear resistance at an affordable price point. Our cloth inserted rubber is designed for mechanical stability and is ideal for flaps and curtains, where standard sheets risk tearing under tension. Its temperature range of -10°F to 190°F ensures reliable performance in various conditions.

Cloth Inserted SBR – 70A – 1/4″ x 36″

Cloth Inserted SBR – 70A – 1/4″ x 36″

• This sheet rubber product is available in 36 and 48 inch widths.
• Per 1/16″ thickness, this reinforced rubber offers one ply of fabric.
• Can be purchased in lengths as short as 5 feet and in custom lengths up to the rolls maximum length.
• Fabric reinforced rubber secures mechanical fastening at an affordable price point.

Suitable For Mechanical Fastening: Not all rubber sheets are suitable for every task. Sheet rubber that is not reinforced will have lower tear strength, thus not recommended for use as a flap or a rubber curtain. For example, pulling the rubber sheet tight and puncturing the material with a bolt may result in troublesome tearing near the bolted area. Fabric reinforced rubber will provide the sturdy construction needed for such tasks. With the inserted cloth, the reinforced rubber becomes mechanically stable for a more secure installation. With fabric reinforced rubber the life of a mechanical installation is enhanced.

Abrasion Resistant SBR: Whether you are using this as a flap on door, rubber curtain on an airplane hanger, or have a personal project, you can be sure that SBR rubber offers excellent abrasion resistance. For this reason, fabric reinforced rubber made with SBR is a popular choice for gritty applications like pavement maintenance and industrial liners. The lasting quality of durable SBR cloth-inserted rubber makes it a cost-effective option as well. Unlike Neoprene or EPDM sheet rubber products, this general-purpose reinforced rubber will fit into most project budgets.

What is a General Purpose Rubber?

Another dependable and cost-effective version of SBR is general-purpose rubber, designed to handle everyday applications. True to its name, this type of rubber performs well in general use-case scenarios where trustworthy performance at an affordable rate is a priority. The inexpensive nature of general purpose rubber sheeting is primarily due to its composition, which is made from synthetic SBR rubber. SBR is generally easier to produce than natural rubber because manufacturers make it from synthetic material derived from components found in petroleum. Thanks to its adaptability, general purpose rubber sheets can be shaped into seals, gaskets, and other residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Its durable nature allows it to function effectively in bumper material or pads.

The primary advantage of general purpose rubber is its ability to perform effectively in everyday conditions at affordable costs. Besides this, it is resistant to moderate temperatures, ranging from -10°F to 190°F, which allows its use in environments that do not experience extreme heat or cold. Its flexibility and elongation capabilities, with a minimum elongation of 300%, will enable it to maintain its shape and function under stress or deformation. Unlike highly specialized or technical rubber products designed for extreme or niche conditions, manufacturers craft general-purpose rubber to deliver reliable performance in standard environments. It provides reliable sealing and insulating properties, making it ideal for applications requiring vibration resistance and noise reduction. The smooth finish makes it suitable for the production of seals and gaskets.

Regarding specifications, our General Purpose Rubber – 60A made from SBR has a durometer of 60 Shore A, giving it a balanced hardness level suitable for most standard applications. The material’s tensile strength of 725 PSI ensures it can withstand moderate mechanical stress without tearing or breaking. It is available in 1/16″, 1/8″, 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″; it is offered in widths of 36″ and roll lengths of 25′ or 50′, depending on the thickness required for the specific application. This rubber has a PSA (Pressure Sensitive Adhesive) backing for enhanced functionality. This adhesive layer ensures the rubber can be easily installed on surfaces, making it ideal for DIY projects or creating barrier layers in specific applications.

General Purpose Rubber – 60A – 3/8″ x 36″

• Smooth black finish
• Stocked width of 36”
• A rubber sheet for a variety of applications
• Working temperature range of -10° F to 190° F
• Black rubber roll available in lengths of 25ft or 50ft depending on the thickness of the rubber

SBR Rubber: Our General Purpose Rubber sheets are made using styrene butadiene rubber (SBR). This synthetic elastomer is known for its durability. SBR’s physical qualities are present in this solid rubber sheet. With a durometer rating of 60, it can handle physical abrasions pretty well. This rubber sacrifices some elasticity and pliability, but it is meant more for physical applications that require a moderate degree of strength. In addition, its durability is enhanced by the fact that it is a vulcanized rubber sheets.

Meant for Not So Sensitive Applications: General Purpose Rubber is very adaptable. A sheet of this elastomer can be made into various seals and gaskets that can then be used for a large variety of different applications. This solid rubber material is well suited for use in residential, commercial, and industrial applications. The material of this black rubber roll functions very well as bumper and pad material too thanks to their good durability.

General Purpose Rubber – 60A – 3/8″ x 36″

What is Skirtboard Rubber?

Skirtboard sheet rubber is a highly durable material designed for demanding industrial and commercial applications, providing protection, sealing, and impact resistance across various industries. Our Skirtboard – SBR Rubber – 70A – 2000 PSI is a blend of SBR and gum rubbers, which enhances durability and resilience. One of its versatile uses includes providing a cutting-edge solution for snowplows, improving their performance and longevity in harsh winter conditions.

In snowplows, skirtboard rubber is used as a blade edge to clear snow and ice from roads, parking lots, and driveways. Unlike metal edges that can damage surfaces such as concrete or asphalt, rubber edges offer a gentler contact, reducing the risk of scratching or gouging. You can drag this rubber along rough surfaces like concrete, asphalt, and cobblestone without causing any damage to the road or the snowplow, making skirtboard rubber particularly valuable for projects prioritizing the preservation of road infrastructure while ensuring effective snow removal.

Beyond snowplows, skirtboard rubber finds extensive applications in conveyor systems, where it acts as a containment barrier to prevent material spillage. This function is crucial in industries like mining and construction, where abrasive materials like gravel, sand, or coal must stay securely on the conveyor belt. The material’s abrasion resistance ensures it can withstand constant friction and wear, extending its service life and reducing maintenance requirements.

In addition, skirtboard rubber is often used in heavy-duty machinery and trucks to line surfaces, protecting equipment from damage caused by impact or harsh environmental conditions. Its resistance to weathering, UV exposure, and temperature extremes ensures reliable performance in outdoor applications, from lining dump trucks to sealing equipment in harsh industrial settings. For applications like snowplows, conveyors, and industrial machinery, skirtboard rubber excels as a reliable material that enhances safety, efficiency, and long-lasting durability across diverse industries.