SBR Latex price index

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SBR Latex price index

This post is a summary of the SBR Latex price developments. The price developments of SBR Latex are expressed in US$ prices converted FX rates applicable at the time when the price was valid. SBR Latex price index developments are calculated from multiple separate sources of data to ensure statistical accuracy.

The outlook for SBR Latex prices, on the second tab, is generated from different inputs including:

• Very recent price developments of immediate cost drivers of SBR Latex prices
• Recent price developments of underlying feedstocks which drive the price of SBR Latex
• Market futures for both cost drives and feedstocks of SBR Latex prices
• Adjustment of current supply/demand imbalances in the SBR Latex market
• Longer term trends in likely demand conditions

Further information on the SBR Latex price index

What is SBR latex

SBR latex, or Styrene-Butadiene Rubber latex, is a synthetic latex or emulsion polymer made from the copolymerization of styrene and butadiene. It is a type of synthetic rubber that has a wide range of applications due to its desirable properties, including:

Flexibility and Elasticity

SBR latex is known for its excellent flexibility and elasticity, making it a popular choice in the production of various rubber products.

Resistance to Abrasion

It exhibits good resistance to abrasion, which makes it suitable for use in applications where durability is essential.

Adhesion

SBR latex has strong adhesive properties, making it useful as a binder in various applications, such as carpet backing, paper coatings, and adhesives.

Weather Resistance

It can withstand exposure to the elements, making it suitable for outdoor applications.

Water Resistance

SBR latex is often used in waterproofing materials, coatings, and sealants because of its resistance to water.

Cost-Effective

SBR latex is generally more cost-effective than some other types of synthetic rubber, making it a popular choice in industries where cost is a significant factor.

What is SBR latex used for

Common applications of SBR latex include:

Adhesives and Sealants

SBR latex is used as a binder in adhesives and sealants to improve their adhesive properties.

Paper Coatings

It is used in the production of coated papers, such as glossy magazine paper, to improve the paper’s printability and durability.

Carpet Backing

SBR latex is used as a backing material for carpets to provide stability and durability.

Dipped Goods

It is used in the manufacture of dipped goods like gloves, balloons, and condoms due to its flexibility and resistance properties.

Construction Materials

SBR latex is used in the construction industry to create waterproof coatings, concrete additives, and tile adhesives.

SBR latex is versatile and finds applications in various industries, making it a valuable synthetic rubber for many commercial products.

How is SBR latex produced

SBR latex, or Styrene-Butadiene Rubber latex, is produced through a process called emulsion polymerization. This process involves the polymerization of styrene and butadiene monomers in an aqueous emulsion. Here’s a simplified overview of how SBR latex is produced:

Monomer Preparation

The first step is to prepare the monomers, styrene, and butadiene. These monomers are typically obtained from petrochemical sources. They may go through purification processes to remove impurities.

Emulsion Formation

In a controlled environment, water, surfactants, and stabilizers are mixed to form an emulsion. The surfactants and stabilizers help to disperse the hydrophobic monomers (styrene and butadiene) in the aqueous phase. The surfactants also help to prevent coalescence of the polymer particles during polymerization.

Initiation

Polymerization is initiated by adding a free radical initiator to the emulsion. Common initiators include potassium persulfate or other chemical compounds that generate free radicals.

Polymerization

The free radicals generated by the initiator molecules start the polymerization process. Styrene and butadiene monomers react together to form a copolymer of styrene and butadiene. The polymerization continues until a desired molecular weight or polymer size is achieved.

Control and Stabilization

Throughout the polymerization process, the reaction conditions (temperature, pressure, and reactant concentrations) are carefully controlled to achieve the desired polymer properties. Stabilizers and surfactants also help maintain the stability of the latex by preventing coagulation.

Termination

When the desired polymerization is achieved, the reaction is terminated by removing the initiator or by other means.

Latex Recovery

The resulting SBR latex is then subjected to processes to remove impurities, stabilize the latex, and adjust its properties, such as the molecular weight and solid content.

Quality Control

The final SBR latex product undergoes quality control testing to ensure it meets the required specifications for its intended applications.

The specific details of the emulsion polymerization process, including the choice of surfactants, stabilizers, initiators, and reaction conditions, can vary depending on the desired properties of the SBR latex and the manufacturer’s processes. Once produced, SBR latex can be used in various industrial applications, as mentioned in the previous response.

What drives the cost of SBR latex

The cost of SBR latex, like many other chemical products, is influenced by various factors and can vary depending on market conditions and specific manufacturing processes. Here are some of the key factors that drive the cost of SBR latex:

Raw Material Costs

The primary raw materials for SBR latex production are styrene and butadiene monomers. Fluctuations in the prices of these petrochemical feedstocks can significantly impact the cost of SBR latex. Global supply and demand for these raw materials, as well as geopolitical factors affecting their availability, can lead to price volatility.

Energy Costs

The energy-intensive nature of the polymerization process requires significant amounts of energy, primarily in the form of electricity and sometimes steam. The cost of energy, including electricity and natural gas, can affect the overall production costs of SBR latex.

Labor and Operating Costs

Labor costs, maintenance costs, and other operating expenses associated with the production facility can influence the cost of SBR latex. Labor costs can vary by region and are often subject to local labor market conditions and regulations.

Technology and Equipment

The choice of polymerization technology and the type of equipment used in the production process can impact both capital and operating costs. More modern and efficient equipment may reduce production costs.

Economies of Scale

Larger production volumes can often lead to lower per-unit production costs due to economies of scale. Manufacturers that produce SBR latex in larger quantities may have a cost advantage over smaller producers.

Quality and Performance Specifications

Meeting specific quality and performance specifications can require additional processing steps or the use of specialty additives, which can increase production costs. Higher-quality SBR latex may command a premium price in the market.

Environmental Regulations

Compliance with environmental regulations and sustainability initiatives can lead to additional costs related to waste disposal, emissions control, and the use of eco-friendly processes and materials.

Market Demand and Competition

Market dynamics, such as supply and demand fluctuations and competitive pressures, can influence pricing. In periods of high demand, prices may rise, while increased competition can lead to price competition and potentially lower prices.

Currency Exchange Rates

If SBR latex production relies on imported raw materials or has an international customer base, fluctuations in currency exchange rates can impact costs and pricing.

Transportation Costs

The cost of transporting SBR latex to customers can also be a significant factor, especially if the production facility is located far from its target markets.

It’s essential to note that the cost of SBR latex can vary from one manufacturer to another and can change over time in response to these factors. Manufacturers often engage in cost optimization efforts, process improvements, and strategic sourcing of raw materials to mitigate cost fluctuations and remain competitive in the market. Additionally, market conditions and economic factors can lead to price fluctuations for SBR latex products.

What types of SBR latex are there

SBR latex, or Styrene-Butadiene Rubber latex, comes in various types and formulations tailored to specific applications and performance requirements. The different types of SBR latex can be categorized based on their properties, chemical composition, and intended uses. Here are some common types of SBR latex:

General-Purpose SBR Latex

This type of SBR latex is used in a wide range of applications, including adhesives, paper coatings, carpet backing, and construction materials. It offers a good balance of properties, including flexibility, adhesion, and durability.

High-Styrene SBR Latex

High-styrene SBR latex contains a higher proportion of styrene monomers compared to butadiene. This results in latex with improved abrasion resistance, hardness, and dimensional stability. High-styrene SBR latex is often used in applications where these properties are essential, such as tire sidewalls and mechanical goods.

Low-Styrene SBR Latex

Low-styrene SBR latex contains a lower proportion of styrene monomers, making it more flexible and elastic than high-styrene SBR latex. It is commonly used in applications like dipped goods (e.g., gloves and balloons) and some types of foam products.

Oil-Extended SBR Latex

Oil-extended SBR latex contains added hydrocarbon oils that enhance the polymer’s softness, flexibility, and processability. This type of latex is often used in the production of foam products, such as foam mattresses and cushioning materials.

High-Solids SBR Latex

High-solids SBR latex has a higher solid content (less water) than regular latex. This makes it suitable for applications where a higher solid content is desirable, such as in coatings and sealants, as it reduces the need for additional drying or curing processes.

Carboxylated SBR Latex

Carboxylated SBR latex contains carboxyl groups on the polymer chain, which enhance its adhesion to various substrates. It is commonly used in applications like paper coatings, where strong adhesion to paper fibers is required.

Heat-Resistant SBR Latex

Some SBR latex formulations are designed to withstand higher temperatures without significant degradation. These heat-resistant SBR latex types are used in applications like automotive parts, gaskets, and seals that require resistance to elevated temperatures.

Low-Allergen SBR Latex

Low-allergen SBR latex formulations are developed with reduced levels of allergenic proteins to minimize the risk of allergic reactions in applications such as medical gloves and other healthcare products.

Antimicrobial SBR Latex

In specific applications where antimicrobial properties are required, SBR latex can be modified or blended with antimicrobial agents to inhibit the growth of bacteria or fungi. This is commonly used in medical and healthcare-related products.

The choice of SBR latex type depends on the intended application and the desired properties, such as flexibility, hardness, adhesion, and resistance to environmental factors. Manufacturers often formulate SBR latex to meet the specific needs of their customers and industries.

Market information

According to https://oec.world/ :

Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR/XSBR) latex are the world’s 1969th most traded product.

In 2020, the top exporters of Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR/XSBR) latex were Germany ($255M), United States ($122M), Japan ($97.5M), Netherlands ($96.8M), and Belgium ($68.6M).

In 2020, the top importers of Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR/XSBR) latex were China ($165M), Belgium ($53.2M), Canada ($41.4M), Turkey ($36.7M), and Germany ($36M).