
In today’s industrial world, synthetic rubber plays a key role across sectors like automotive, footwear, construction, and adhesives. Among synthetic rubbers, Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) is the most widely used due to its cost-effectiveness, abrasion resistance, and performance consistency. If you are considering entering the chemical or manufacturing sector, it’s the perfect time to start a manufacturing business of Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) and tap into its growing global demand.
What is Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR)?
SBR is a synthetic elastomer made by polymerizing styrene and butadiene in a controlled environment. The resulting rubber has excellent mechanical properties, flexibility, and resistance to wear, making it ideal for tire manufacturing, conveyor belts, and shoe soles. SBR can be produced using either emulsion or solution polymerization techniques, depending on the end-use application.
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Why SBR is in High Demand Globally
The demand for SBR is largely driven by the automotive and industrial sectors. Here’s why industries prefer SBR:
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High abrasion resistance and durability
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Good aging stability when mixed with antioxidants
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Cost-effective substitute for natural rubber
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Versatility in blending with other rubbers and additives
More than 50% of SBR production is used in tire manufacturing, while the rest finds applications in footwear, adhesives, gaskets, and flooring materials.
Market Potential for SBR Manufacturing in India
India imports a significant volume of SBR annually due to limited local production, which creates a strong case for domestic manufacturing. Factors favoring SBR manufacturing in India include:
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Rising vehicle ownership and tire replacement demand
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Growth in infrastructure and construction activities
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Government’s “Make in India” initiative
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Import substitution potential to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers
By setting up a plant to manufacture SBR locally, you can serve not just domestic clients but also tap into export markets like Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
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Key Steps to Start Manufacturing Business of Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR)
1. Feasibility Study and Market Analysis
Conduct in-depth research to understand regional demand, competitors, logistics, and supply chains. Also, identify your ideal customer base: tire manufacturers, rubber product makers, industrial suppliers.
2. Choosing the Right Technology
SBR is mainly produced by:
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Emulsion Polymerization (E-SBR): More common, suitable for general applications like tires, footwear.
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Solution Polymerization (S-SBR): Offers better performance, preferred in high-performance tires.
Technology choice will impact your machinery, operating cost, and product range.
3. Location and Infrastructure
Set up your plant near industrial hubs, ports, or petrochemical complexes. Ensure access to utilities (power, water, steam), road transport, and skilled labor.
4. Sourcing Raw Materials
The two main raw materials for SBR are:
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Styrene: Derived from benzene or ethylene
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Butadiene: A byproduct of petroleum refining or natural gas processing
These can be sourced from petrochemical suppliers within India or through imports.
5. Machinery and Equipment Required
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Reactors and polymerization vessels
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Heat exchangers and separators
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Vacuum pumps and dryers
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Blending tanks and pelletizing systems
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Storage tanks for monomers and solvents
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Pollution control units (scrubbers, effluent treatment)
6. Licenses and Approvals
Secure the following:
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Environment clearance from State Pollution Control Board
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Explosives and hazardous chemical storage licenses
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Factory license and GST registration
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Consent to Establish and Operate
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Investment and Cost Structure
A medium-sized Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) manufacturing unit may require an investment of ?50–100 crore or more depending on capacity and level of automation.
Major cost components:
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Capital investment in land and machinery (45%)
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Raw materials and utilities (35%)
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Skilled labor and operations (10%)
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Licensing, R&D, and marketing (10%)
Profitability improves with scale, long-term contracts, and energy-efficient operations. Margins typically range from 12–20% in the synthetic rubber sector.
Target Buyers and Business Opportunities
The primary customers for SBR include:
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Tire manufacturers (OEM and aftermarket)
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Conveyor belt and hose manufacturers
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Footwear and sports equipment brands
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Adhesive and sealant industries
Additional revenue streams include exporting processed SBR to regions with rubber shortages and diversifying into rubber-based products.
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Environmental and Safety Considerations
As a chemical manufacturing business, SBR production must comply with environmental and safety norms:
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Install Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) systems
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Use air scrubbers and VOC emission control technologies
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Ensure worker safety with PPE, hazard training, and process automation
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Conduct regular audits for chemical handling and storage compliance
Being compliant not only avoids regulatory penalties but also builds trust with clients and investors.
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Conclusion: Start Manufacturing Business of Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) for Long-Term Growth
The global rubber industry is evolving, and the shift toward synthetic solutions makes this the right time to start a manufacturing business of Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) in India. With growing demand across multiple sectors, SBR production offers long-term profitability, scalable operations, and opportunities for product diversification.
Whether you are an investor, chemical engineer, or entrepreneur, this business model aligns well with future trends in automotive and industrial applications. Take the first step today with proper planning, expert consultancy, and a focus on quality.
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