MBTS (2,2'-Dibenzothiazole Disulfide) is a widely used rubber accelerator that plays a crucial role in the production of rubber products. This article aims to provide an overview of MBTS, its characteristics, its applications in rubber product manufacturing, potential product combinations, and important considerations for commercial procurement.


1. What is MBTS?


MBTS is an organic compound belonging to the thiazole class of accelerators. It is a yellowish powder with a slight odor. Chemically, it consists of two benzothiazole rings connected by a disulfide bond. MBTS is known for its high solubility in rubber and various organic solvents, making it an excellent choice for rubber processing.


2. Characteristics of MBTS:


- Acceleration: MBTS functions as a primary accelerator, meaning it can initiate and speed up the vulcanization process in rubber production.
- Moderate reactivity: It offers a balanced reactivity, making it suitable for a wide range of rubber types, including natural rubber (NR), synthetic rubber, and blends.
- Good scorch safety: MBTS exhibits a delayed onset of scorching during the vulcanization process, providing additional processing time and reducing the risk of premature curing.
- Excellent vulcanization properties: It promotes cross-linking between rubber molecules, resulting in improved mechanical properties, such as increased tensile strength, elongation, and resistance to abrasion.
- Wide temperature range: MBTS offers good stability and performance over a broad temperature range, making it suitable for various applications.
- Compatibility: MBTS is compatible with other accelerators, such as thiurams, dithiocarbamates, and sulfenamides, allowing for versatile formulation options.


3. Applications in Rubber Product Manufacturing:


MBTS finds extensive use in the production of rubber products, including but not limited to:
- Tires: It enhances the vulcanization process, improving tire durability, tread wear resistance, and overall performance.
- Rubber footwear: MBTS accelerates the curing process of rubber soles and provides enhanced mechanical strength and flexibility.
- Industrial rubber goods: It contributes to the production of belts, hoses, seals, gaskets, and other rubber components with improved properties.
- Automotive parts: MBTS facilitates the production of rubber components used in engine mounts, suspension systems, and grommets, ensuring their reliability and longevity.


4. Combinations with Other Products:


MBTS can be combined with other accelerators to achieve specific performance requirements. Some common combinations include:
- MBTS and sulfur: This combination is widely used in tire manufacturing and provides excellent vulcanization properties and overall tire performance.
- MBTS and thiurams: Thiuram accelerators, such as TMTD (Tetramethylthiuram Disulfide) and TMTM (Tetramethylthiuram Monosulfide), when combined with MBTS, can enhance the vulcanization process and improve aging resistance.
- MBTS and sulfenamide accelerators: The combination of MBTS with accelerators like CBS (N-Cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazolesulfenamide) and TBBS (N-tert-Butyl-2-benzothiazolesulfenamide) provides improved scorch safety and curing efficiency.


5. Considerations for Commercial Procurement:


When procuring MBTS for commercial purposes, it is important to consider the following information:
- Quality assurance: Ensure that the supplier follows stringent quality control measures and provides certificates of analysis to ensure the product's consistency and reliability.
- Regulatory compliance: Verify that the MBTS product meets the required industry standards and complies with relevant regulations and guidelines.
- Packaging and storage: Check if the packaging is suitable for your specific requirements and that proper storage conditions are provided to maintain the product's quality and stability.
- Technical support: Evaluate if the supplier offers technical support and assistance, such as formulation recommendations, to optimize the use of MBTS in your rubber products.


MBTS is a valuable rubber accelerator with notable characteristics, including acceleration, moderate reactivity, good scorch safety, and excellent vulcanization properties. It finds widespread application in various rubber products, especially in tires, rubber footwear, industrial rubber goods, and automotive parts. By combining MBTS with other accelerators, manufacturers can tailor rubber formulations to meet specific performance requirements. When engaging in commercial procurement, it is vital to prioritize quality assurance, regulatory compliance, appropriate packaging, and technical support to ensure optimal results in rubber product manufacturing.