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2-chloro-1,3-butadiene

chemical compound

Quick Summary

2-chloro-1,3-butadiene, also known as chloroprene, is a colorless, toxic, and flammable liquid. It is the monomer used to create neoprene, a synthetic rubber known for its high tensile strength, resilience, and resistance to oil, flame, oxygen, and ozone.1

Chloroprene was first prepared in 1930 and was marketed as Neoprene. Modern production methods involve the chlorination of butadiene or isoprene. The polymerization of chloroprene results in polychloroprene, a versatile elastomer used in applications requiring resistance to heat, oil, flame, and abrasion, such as wire insulation, hoses, belts, and adhesives.1

Butadiene itself is an organic compound crucial in the production of synthetic rubbers, including neoprene and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), which is widely used in automobile tires.21

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