Butyl Rubber: Key Uses, Types, and How to Source from China
Butyl rubber is a synthetic elastomer known for its exceptional impermeability to gases and resistance to heat, chemicals, and weathering. Widely used in automotive, construction, and pharmaceutical industries, this material offers unique advantages for sealing and insulation applications.
How to Find Reliable Butyl Rubber from China in 2025
China remains the top global supplier of butyl rubber, offering competitive pricing and scalable production. To identify trustworthy manufacturers:
- Verify certifications like ISO 9001 and REACH compliance
- Request material test reports (MTRs) for gas permeability and tensile strength
- Check minimum order quantities (MOQs) - typically 1-5 tons for bulk orders
- Review supplier transaction history on B2B platforms like Alibaba
Top production hubs include Shandong, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang provinces, where 60% of Chinese synthetic rubber output originates.
What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Butyl Rubber from China
Key considerations when importing:
| Factor | Specification Range |
|---|---|
| Mooney Viscosity | ML 1+8 at 125°C: 35-55 |
| Purity | ≥98% isobutylene content |
| Lead Time | 15-30 days for customized formulations |
Always request samples for ozone resistance testing (ASTM D1149) before full container load (FCL) orders.
Types of Butyl Rubber
Three primary variants dominate the market:
Regular Butyl (IIR)
Standard grade with 1.5-4.5% isoprene content, ideal for tire inner liners and vibration dampers.
Halogenated Butyl (XIIR)
Chlorinated or brominated for improved curing properties, used in pharmaceutical stoppers.
Thermoplastic Butyl
Recyclable variant blending IIR with polypropylene, gaining popularity in sustainable construction.
Functions and features of Butyl Rubber
This material outperforms natural rubber in critical aspects:
- Gas barrier: 8-10x better air retention than NR
- Heat resistance: Stable from -50°C to +150°C
- Chemical inertness: Resists acids, alkalis, and polar solvents
- Damping capacity: Absorbs 90%+ vibrational energy
Scenarios of Butyl Rubber
Practical applications across industries:
Automotive
Tire inner liners (70% of global butyl consumption), engine mounts, and HVAC seals.
Construction
Roofing membranes, expansion joints, and waterproofing tapes with 20+ year lifespans.
Medical
Pharmaceutical closures maintaining sterility for vaccine vials and IV bags.
How to Choose Butyl Rubber
Selection criteria based on application needs:
- For gas sealing: Opt for high-molecular-weight grades (≥400,000 g/mol)
- Weather exposure: Choose carbon-black-filled compounds
- FDA compliance: Specify USP Class VI certification for medical uses
- Cost efficiency: Regular IIR suffices for non-critical gaskets
Butyl Rubber Q & A
Q: How does butyl compare to EPDM for outdoor use?
A: Butyl has superior air tightness but EPDM offers better UV resistance - choose based on primary exposure factors.
Q: What's the price range per metric ton?
A: $2,800-$3,500 for standard IIR, 15-20% premium for halogenated grades (2024 market data).
Q: Can butyl rubber be recycled?
A> Yes, through devulcanization processes achieving 80-85% material recovery rates.
Q: Minimum thickness for effective waterproofing?
A> 1.5mm for sheet applications, 0.8mm for self-adhesive tapes.
Q: Lead time for custom formulations?
A> Typically 3-6 weeks including compound testing and sample approval.
