Butyl Rubber

Properties of butyl rubber

Butyl rubber is a polymerised version of isobutene and isoprene, or isobutylene-isoprene rubber (IIR). IIR is very suitable for applications at low temperatures (from -50°C), and remains durable under these conditions. This material enables the creation of airtight seals. Because it is also resistant to various weather conditions, oxygen, UV radiation and ozone, it is ideal for outdoor applications. It is also known for its high degree of flexibility and impermeability to gases, which make it very suitable for industrial applications, such as in spring bellows. Due to its resistance to chemicals and mineral acids and alkalis, the material is also perfect for chemical applications. However, it is not suitable for use with mineral oils. Butyl rubber is very easy to glue and is therefore often used as a rubber seal.

The various applications of butyl rubber

Due to its airtight properties, butyl rubber is most commonly used in the production of inner tubes for bicycles. You may also be aware that it is a raw material used in making chewing gum, and provides the gum with its elasticity. Another application familiar to consumers is butyl rubber gloves. The material is also used as a liquid additive to fuel and lubricants, having a purifying effect in the fuel that reduces tank sedimentation. Because it has a longer life span, it is also used as an alternative to foam in loud speakers. Older speakers mainly use foam, while butyl rubber is more commonly chosen nowadays. Similarly to its use in bicycle inner tubes, this rubber is also used for the inside of sports balls, including rugby balls, footballs and basketballs. This gives the balls their airtight qualities. The material is also used to repair roofs. This may remind you of EPDM rubber, which is a well-known roofing material, however butyl rubber is also used in this particular market. Because IIR rubber has such good resistance to chemicals, it is also used to make the seals used in gas masks and other protective clothing, as well as in medicine bottles. Finally, its airtight qualities make it ideal for use in window seals.

How EKI delivers butyl rubber

Nijmegen-based manufacturer EKI can supply you with high-quality butyl rubber tape, stripping and butyl rubber sheets in both standard and custom sizes. Our butyl rubber (IIR) items can be delivered both in bulk and in small quantities. Regardless of the size of the purchase, we can deliver our products quickly throughout Europe. If you have specific requirements or questions about our products or their technical specifications, please contact us via +31(0)243773378 or info@eki.nl.