Styrene Butadiene Latex (SBR Emulsion) CAS 9003-55-8

Introduction to Styrene Butadiene Latex

Styrene Butadiene Latex is an aqueous dispersion of styrene-butadiene copolymer particles stabilized by surfactants. It is widely used across paper, textile and construction industries for its high binding efficiency and favorable rheological properties, which improve tensile strength, fold endurance and water resistance of finished products.

It combines high solid content with relatively low viscosity, supporting fast coating speeds and high solid pick-up without excessive water evaporation costs. The material is temperature sensitive: freezing causes irreversible coagulation that breaks the emulsion, while prolonged high heat can induce premature cross-linking or surface skinning. Store in climate-controlled facilities strictly between 5 °C and 35 °C.

Styrene Butadiene Latex Chemical & Physical Properties

Applications of Styrene Butadiene Latex

Paper coating & surface sizing
Serves as the primary binder for clay and calcium carbonate coatings on printing papers and packaging boards. Improves ink holdout, gloss and surface pick resistance for high-speed offset printing.

Carpet backing & tuft bind
Applied as a backing compound mixed with mineral fillers. Locks carpet tufts firmly in place, delivers dimensional stability and adds cushioning to broadloom carpets and carpet tiles.

Construction & cement modification
Blended into Portland cement mortars, tile adhesives and waterproofing membranes. Reduces brittleness, improves adhesion to concrete substrates and enhances flexural strength of finished cementitious systems.

Non-woven & textile bonding
Used for saturation bonding or print bonding of fiberglass mats, shoe interlinings and filtration media. Provides structural integrity while maintaining the natural drape and permeability of the fabric.

Storage & Safety Precautions for Styrene Butadiene Latex

• Store strictly between 5 °C and 35 °C. Do not freeze, as freezing permanently breaks the emulsion and forms rubbery coagulum. Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent surface skinning. Avoid direct sunlight and storage beyond 6 months to prevent bacterial degradation.
• Water-based emulsion with low acute hazard. Avoid prolonged skin contact as dried film is difficult to remove; wash with soap and water before it sets. Wear safety goggles during pumping to prevent eye splashes.
• Transport in temperature-controlled (reefer) containers or during warm seasons to prevent freezing in transit. Standard drums and IBC totes are suitable for normal shipment.
• Verify solid content, pH and viscosity upon receipt. Inspect for coagulation, grit or foul odor indicating bacterial spoilage. Filter through a 200-mesh screen before use to remove any shipping-induced surface skins.

Styrene Butadiene Latex FAQ

Q: My SBR Latex arrived frozen with lumps. Can I save it by heating and stirring?

A: No. Freezing causes irreversible coagulation of polymer particles. Once the emulsion breaks into rubbery lumps, it cannot be re-dispersed and the lot must be rejected. Use temperature-controlled containers for winter transit.

Q: Why does viscosity drop during storage?

A: A viscosity drop paired with lower pH and foul odor signals bacterial contamination. Sanitize storage tanks and maintain pH above 8.0 with ammonia water to suppress microbial growth.

Q: Can general-purpose SBR latex be used for cement mortar modification?

A: Yes, as long as cement alkalinity stays within the latex tolerance range. For demanding cement applications, carboxylated SBR latex or acrylic emulsions offer better long-term alkali resistance and adhesion.