POLYISOBUTYLENE

Product Description

Polyisobutylene, also known as "PIB" or butyl rubber, (C4H8)n, is the homopolymer of

isobutylene, or 2-methyl-1-propene, on which butyl rubber is based. Butyl rubber is produced by
polymerization of about 98% of isobutylene with about 2% of isoprene. Structurally,
polyisobutylene resembles polypropylene, having two methyl groups substituted on every other
carbon atom. Polyisobutylene is a colorless to light yellow viscoelastic material. It is generally
odorless and tasteless, though it may exhibit a slight characteristic odor. Butyl rubber has excellent
impermeability, and the long polyisobutylene segments of its polymer chains give it good flex
properties. It can be made from the monomer isobutylene or CH2=C(CH3)2 only via cationic
addition polymerization.

Product Uses

1. Explosives

Polyisobutylene is often used by the explosives industry as a binding agent in plastic

explosives such as C-4. Polyisobutylene binder is used because it makes the explosive more
insensitive to premature detonation as well as making it easier to handle and mold.

2. Sporting equipment

Butyl rubber is used for the bladders in sporting balls (e.g. Rugby balls, footballs,
basketballs, netballs) to provide a tough, airtight inner compartment.

3. Damp proofing and roof repair

Butyl rubber, in form of sealant, is used for damp proofing, rubber roof repair and for
maintenance of roof membranes (especially around the edges).

4. Gas masks and chemical agent protection

CHE 517 : CHE ELECTIVE I

PETROCHEMICALS FROM ETHYLENE, PROPYLENE, AROMATICS, AND C4 STREAM
DACAIMAT, DIONISIO, FULUGAN, REDUBLO
 Butyl rubber is one of the most robust elastomers when subjected to chemical warfare agents
and decontamination materials. It is a harder and less porous material than other elastomers, such
as natural rubber or silicone, but still has enough elasticity to form an airtight seal. While butyl
rubber will break down when exposed to agents such as NH3 (ammonia) or certain solvents, it
breaks down more slowly than comparable elastomers. It is therefore used to create seals in gas
masks and other protective clothing.

5. Pharmaceutical Stoppers

Butyl and Bromobutyl rubber are commonly used for manufacturing rubber stoppers used for
sealing medicine vials and bottles.

6. Tires

Butyl rubber and halogenated rubber are used for the innerliner that holds the air in the tire.

CHE 517 : CHE ELECTIVE I

PETROCHEMICALS FROM ETHYLENE, PROPYLENE, AROMATICS, AND C4 STREAM
DACAIMAT, DIONISIO, FULUGAN, REDUBLO