Polyisobutylene (PIB) is a very versatile, non-toxic, water-white viscous liquid and has the ability to increase tackiness, to provide water-repellency. which has very important uses in lubricant additives, post-processing of polymer materials, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, food additives, etc.
Low molecular weight polyisobutylene (PIB) offers excellent high-temperature performance, clean-burning properties and food-safety characteristics for use in synthetic lubricants. In cosmetics and personal care products, PIB enhances products such as lipsticks, eye and face cosmetics by providing lipid thickening, surface bonding and emolliency. It is commonly used in sunscreens and skin care products. Because of its adhesion, aging stability and flexibility, PIB is a key ingredient in caulks, sealants and adhesives.
Medium and high molecular weight PIBs are primarily used in adhesives because of their plasticity and tackiness. In packaging, especially cling film, PIB enhances freshness, tear resistance and low-temperature flexibility when combined with linear low-density polyethylene. PIBs are also used as modifiers in plastics, resins and rubbers to improve flexibility, impact strength and tear resistance. Their electrical insulating properties make them valuable in wire manufacturing. In addition, PIBs are used to improve cold crack resistance on asphalt surfaces and are becoming more common in food packaging due to their adhesive properties, hydrophobic stability and food safety approvals.