SIBUR replaces import of raw materials for production of synthetic rubbers

SIBUR and Kazan Federal University have jointly developed a skeletal isomerization catalyst for butylenes, which is used in the production of isobutylene, an important component in the manufacture of synthetic rubbers. Tests were successfully conducted at Nizhnekamskneftekhim, and the new development has already been introduced into the production of isoprene rubbers, the SIBUR press service reported.

"Catalysts are key elements in the production of chemical products, on which the production process and the quality of the finished product depend. Today, many of them are imported to Russia from abroad, but SIBUR is working to completely switch to its own solutions by 2027-2029, which is largely made possible by joint development and technology development with Russian partners," the company notes.

Together with its partners, SIBUR, as reported, has ensured "technological independence of key components for synthetic rubbers and ABS plastics", the availability of which "depends on the release of up to 1 million tons of products per year, as well as the development of key industries of the Russian industry".

Another development was the dehydrogenation catalyst for butane using the Goodrich technology, which is used in the production of divinyl (1,3-butadiene) - a raw material for the production of SK and plastic. "Its availability depends on the production of many types of rubber used in the production of automotive tires, roofing materials, rubber products and road construction components," SIBUR emphasizes.

Previously, this catalyst was purchased abroad from the manufacturer, which was the only one in the world, and import substitution became possible thanks to the joint work of the SIBUR Innovations scientific center and the NPK Synthesis scientific and production company. As a result of three months of use at the Tobolsk industrial facility, the catalyst confirmed that it is not inferior to the imported analogue.

"Synthetic rubbers play an important role in the economy, ensuring the development of such industries as the automotive, construction, oil and gas, and medical industries. About 70% of the produced synthetic rubbers are used in the automotive industry and are the basis for the production of tires and rubber products, such as seals and gaskets," SIBUR says, adding that last year the company replaced seven brands of SK.

According to SIBUR, in 2023, 38.8 million tires were produced in Russia, and it is expected that this year about 41 million tires will be produced, which means an increase of about 6%. The market also notes an increase in demand, which is "largely due to the increase in car sales, in particular Chinese brands".