What is SBR Latex?
SBR Latex stands for Styrene-Butadiene Rubber Latex. It is a synthetic rubber emulsion produced by the polymerization of styrene and butadiene in water. SBR latex is a milky white, viscous liquid and is widely used in construction, adhesives, coatings, and textiles due to its excellent adhesion, flexibility, water resistance, and durability.
🧪 Chemical Composition
Styrene (C₈H₈): Provides rigidity and strength
Butadiene (C₄H₆): Provides elasticity and flexibility
Typically stabilized with surfactants (like soaps or emulsifiers)
🔧 Properties
Property Value / Description
Appearance Milky white liquid
Solids Content ~50% (varies by grade)
pH 9–11 (alkaline)
Viscosity 50–1000 cps (depends on formulation)
Particle Size 100–300 nm
Film Formation Forms flexible films upon drying
Water Resistance Good, especially when cross-linked
Adhesion Excellent to concrete, cement, and fibers
🏗️ Applications
🏠 Construction
As a bonding agent in cement and mortar
Enhances waterproofing in coatings and screeds
Used in tile adhesives, plasters, and grouts
🎨 Coatings and Paints
Binder in paints, especially for cementitious surfaces
Improves scrub resistance and flexibility
🧵 Textiles
Coating for non-woven fabrics
Used in carpet backing and fabric finishing
📎 Adhesives
In pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs)
In wood glues, bookbinding, and packaging
✅ Advantages
Improves flexibility and crack resistance of cement
Enhances adhesion to various substrates
Increases durability and chemical resistance
Reduces water absorption and improves freeze-thaw stability
⚠️ Limitations
Sensitive to UV radiation (can degrade over time)
Not suitable for high-heat applications
Requires proper curing to ensure performance
Can be unstable at low pH or in presence of salts
📦 Storage & Handling
Store at 5–35°C in sealed containers
Avoid freezing or prolonged exposure to air
Shelf life: ~6–12 months depending on the formulation
🏷️ Popular Brands / Trade Names
Rhoplex®
DOW™ SBR Latex
Synthomer®
BASF SBR Emulsions
What Is SBR Latex Polymer?SBR Latex Stands For Styrene-Butadiene Rubber Latex. It Is A Synthetic Rubber Latex, A Stable Dispersion (emulsion) Of Polymer Microparticles In An Aqueous Medium. SBR Latex Is Produced By Emulsion Polymerization Of Styrene And Butadiene Monomers. CompositionStyrene: Typically 15-30% By Weight In The Copolymer. Butadiene: Typically 70-85% By Weight. The Ratio Of Styrene To Butadiene Affects The Properties Of The SBR Latex (more Styrene Inc Continue