Top 20 Nitrile Butadiene Rubber Manufacturing Companies in 2025

Nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), a synthetic rubber renowned for its exceptional resistance to oils, fuels, and chemicals, has become a cornerstone material in various industries. From automotive and aerospace to healthcare and oil & gas, NBR’s unique properties make it indispensable for manufacturing seals, gaskets, hoses, and gloves. Its ability to withstand extreme temperatures and harsh environments has cemented its position as a go-to material for engineers and manufacturers worldwide.

As global demand for durable and reliable elastomers continues to rise, the NBR has witnessed significant growth, driven by advancements in polymer technology and increasing industrial applications. This blog delves into the fascinating world of nitrile butadiene rubber, exploring its properties, applications, and the leading companies that are shaping its future.

What Exactly is Nitrile Butadiene Rubber?

Nitrile butadiene rubber is a synthetic copolymer derived from the polymerization of butadiene and acrylonitrile. The proportion of acrylonitrile in the polymer chain determines the rubber’s properties, with higher acrylonitrile content offering greater resistance to oils and fuels but reduced flexibility at low temperatures. NBR is classified into several grades based on its acrylonitrile content, ranging from low (18-24%), medium (25-33%), to high (34-50%).

One of the main features of NBR is its excellent resistivity to petroleum-based oils, fuels, and other chemicals, making it ideal for use in environments where exposure to such substances in common. Furthermore, NBR exhibits good abrasion resistance, tensile strength, and compression set properties, further enhancing its utility in demanding applications.

Applications of Nitrile Butadiene Rubber

Oil & Gas Industry

In the oil and gas sector, NBR is used for producing seals, gaskets, and hoses that can withstand exposure to drilling fluids, crude oil, and natural gas. Its chemical resistance ensures reliability in harsh operating conditions.

Healthcare Industry

NBR is a key material in the production of disposable gloves, particularly in medical and laboratory settings. Its resistance to chemicals and punctures makes it a safer alternative to natural rubber latex, which can cause allergic reactions.

Automotive Industry

NBR is extensively used in the automotive sector for manufacturing fuel and oil hoses, seals & gaskets, and O-rings. Its resistance to automotive fluids and durability under high temperatures make it a preferred material for engine and transmission components.

Aerospace Industry

The aerospace sector relies on NBR for manufacturing components that require high performance under extreme conditions, such as fuel system seals and gaskets.

Industrial Applications

NBR is used in several industrial applications, including conveyor equipment such as conveyer belts, printing rollers, and hydraulic hoses where resistance to oil and abrasion is necessary.

Leading Market Companies

The global NBR market is highly competitive, with several key players driving innovation and production. Below are some of the leading companies involved in the manufacture and supply of nitrile butadiene rubber.

1. LANXESS AG

LANXESS AG is a public company headquartered in Cologne, Germany. The company was founded in 2004. LANXESS is one of the world’s leading producers of synthetic rubber, including NBR. The company offers a wide range of NBR grades tailored to specific applications, such as automotive and industrial uses.

2. Zeon Corporation

Zeon Corporation was founded in 1950 with capital from Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd., and Nippon Light Metal Company, Ltd. The headquarters of the company are located in Tokyo, Japan. Zeon Corporation is a major player in the NBR market, known for its high-performance elastomers. The company’s NBR products are widely used in the automotive, healthcare, and industrial sectors.

3. Synthos S.A.

With its headquarters based in Oswiecim, Poland, Synthos S.A. was founded in 1945. Synthos is a significant producer of synthetic rubbers, including NBR. The company focuses on developing innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of its customers.

4. ARLANXEO (A Subsidiary of Saudi Aramco)

ARLANXEO was founded in 2016 as a joint venture between LANXESS and Saudi Aramco and is currently headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands. ARLANXEO is one of the world's leading producers of synthetic rubber, including NBR. It provides high-quality elastomers for automotive, industrial, and oil & gas applications. It focuses mainly on sustainable production and innovative rubber solutions.

5. Kumho Petrochemical

Kumho Petrochemical is a multinational chemical company that manufactures synthetic rubbers, synthetic resins, specialty chemicals, and more. The company was founded in 1970 when Kumho Group had difficulty securing raw materials for its tire and bus businesses. Its headquarters are based in Seoul, South Korea. Kumho Petrochemical’s NBR products are known for their high quality and reliability.

Advantages of Nitrile Butadiene Rubber

• Oil and Chemical Resistance

NBR’s ability to resist degradation from oils, fuels, and chemicals is unmatched, making it ideal for use in challenging environments.

• Durability

Its high tensile strength and abrasion resistance ensure long-lasting performance in demanding applications.

• Temperature Resistance

NBR can operate effectively across a wide temperature range, from 40°C to 120°C, depending on the grade, and possesses great temperature resistance.

• Cost Effectiveness

Compared to other specialty elastomers, NBR offers a balance of performance and affordability, making it a cost-effective solution for many industries.

Emerging Market Trends Listed

Development of Hydrogenated NBR (HNBR)

Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber, or HNBR, is a modified version of NBR with enhanced resistance to heat, ozone, and chemicals. HNBR is increasingly being used in demanding applications, such as automotive timing belts and oilfield equipment.

Focus on Sustainability

As environmental concerns are growing, manufacturers are exploring ways to produce NBR using sustainable raw materials and processes. This includes the use of bio-based acrylonitrile and recycling initiatives to reduce waste.

Rising Adoption of Nitrile Gloves

With growing awareness of hygiene and safety, the demand for nitrile gloves has surged in healthcare, food processing, and chemical industries. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, leading to significant investments in nitrile glove manufacturing.

Customization for Specific Applications

Companies are developing specialized NBR grades tailored to meet the unique requirements of specific industries, such as healthcare and aerospace.

End Note and Conclusion

NBR remains a crucial material across various industries. With its superior oil and chemical resistance, durability, and versatility, NBR continues to see strong demand in global markets. As industries continue to expand and prioritize high-performance elastomers, NBR is set to remain a key player in the global synthetic rubber market. For businesses looking to source high-quality NBR or explore new applications, partnering with established manufacturers can provide access to advanced materials tailored to specific requirements.

With ongoing research and technological advancements, the future of NBR looks promising, paving the way for enhanced performance and sustainability in various industrial applications.