4 POLYMER CHEMISTRY

4.10 Elastomers–Buna-S, Buna-N–preparation, properties and applications

ELASTOMERS–BUNA-S
Elastomers are artificial rubbers which can be stretched at least twice its length and return to their original shape
as soon as the stretching force is released
E.g. BUNA – S rubber, BUNA – N rubber
BUNA – S rubber (GR – S rubber) or Styrene rubber
Preparation: In presence of Sodium (Na) as catalyst co-polymerization of butadiene and styrene gives BUNA – S
rubber

Properties
 It is a strong and tough polymer
 It has high abrasion resistance
 It has high load bearing capacity
 It is easily oxidized by ozone in atmosphere
 It swells in oils and solvents
Applications
 It is used in the manufacture of tyres
 It is also used in the manufacture of wires and cable insulators
 It is used for tank lining in chemical industry

BUNA-N
Preparation: Co-polymerization of butadiene & Acrylonitrile in presence of Sodium as catalyst gives BUNA – N

rubber
Properties
 It is highly resistant to oil and heat
 It has high abrasion resistance
 It is less resistant to alkalies
 Vulcanized BUNA – N rubber is resistant to ageing & high temperatures
Applications
 It is used for making conveyer belts, aircraft components, automobile parts etc.
 It is used in the manufacture of gaskets, hose pipes etc.
 It is also used for making tank linings and pipes for chemical industries

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