Introduction to Highly Active Polyisobutylene
Highly active polyisobutylene (commonly abbreviated as HR-PIB) is a class of synthetic polymers with excellent performance. Compared with common polyisobutylene, its most crucial characteristic lies in the extremely high content of methylene vinyl at the end of the molecular chain, which endows it with exceptionally outstanding chemical reactivity. HR-PIB is not the final product but a key basic raw material and intermediate for manufacturing numerous high-performance chemicals.

1. Core features: High reactivity and excellent physical properties
The core value of HR-PIB stems from its "high activity" :

High reactivity: The high content of methylene vinyl structure at the end of its molecular chain enables it to react more efficiently and completely with various chemical substances (such as maleic anhydride). This characteristic is a prerequisite for preparing high-quality downstream derivatives, such as lubricating oil additives.

Outstanding physical properties: HR-PIB is typically a colorless, odorless, and non-toxic viscous liquid, featuring excellent heat resistance, oxidation resistance, chemical resistance, and electrical insulation. It does not form a film during use and can completely decompose without leaving any ash residue.

2. Main models: PIB 1000, PIB 1300, PIB 2300
The distinction among these models is mainly based on the size of their number-average molecular weight. The difference in molecular weight directly determines their physical state and core application fields.

PIB 1000

This is one of the models with the highest reactivity Due to its relatively low molecular weight, it exhibits a low viscosity and good fluidity.

Core application: It is the preferred raw material for preparing ash-free dispersants for lubricating oil (such as PIBSA and its derivatives) and gasoline detergents. Its high activity ensures a high conversion rate and product quality in subsequent chemical reactions.

PIB 1300

The molecular weight is moderate, achieving a good balance between reactivity and the physical properties of the final product. It is more viscous than PIB 1000.

Core application: It is also widely used in the production of high-performance lubricating oil additives. In addition, it is also an ideal base material for manufacturing sealants, grout fillers and pressure-sensitive adhesives, which can endow products with permanent adhesion and flexibility.

PIB 2300

It belongs to HR-PIB with high molecular weight. Its viscosity is extremely high, presenting a form similar to paste or semi-solid.

Core applications: Mainly used as a tackifying agent and plasticizer, it is employed in the formulation of high-performance industrial gear oils and greases, as well as in the production of sealants and tapes with high bonding strength. Its polymer chains offer excellent shear stability and cohesive strength.

Briefly summarize the relationship among the three:

PIB 1000 is a "reaction expert", focusing on chemical synthesis.

PIB 1300 is a "balance expert", taking into account both reactivity and physical properties.

PIB 2300 is the "physical pillar", focusing on endowing products with high viscosity and high strength.

3. Core application fields
Based on the above characteristics, the main applications of HR-PIB are concentrated in:

Lubricating oil and fuel additives (the main field) :

As a key intermediate, it is used in the production of ash-free dispersants. This type of additive is an essential component of modern engine oil, which can effectively prevent the formation of sludge and carbon deposits and keep the engine clean.

It can be directly used as a viscosity index improver and viscosity enhancer in gear oil, hydraulic oil, etc.

Adhesive and sealant

It is the core polymer for the production of butyl sealants, waterproof membranes, and pressure-sensitive adhesives (such as labels and tapes), providing excellent adhesion, flexibility, and aging resistance.

Modification of Polymer materials

It is used to improve the impact toughness and flexibility of other plastics, such as polypropylene.

Other special fields

It is used in gum bases for chewing gum, cosmetics (such as emollients), medicine (such as ointment bases), and electrical insulating materials, etc.