Recently, Lanzhou Petrochemical's 2,000 tons/year special nitrile rubber (NBR) plant successfully started up in one operation. The plant can produce customized series of special nitrile rubber products including high acrylonitrile, carboxyl modified, and low-temperature oil-resistant grades.
According to reports, the special nitrile rubber can remain non-brittle at minus 40 degrees Celsius and non-softening at 150 degrees Celsius, with 50% improved adhesion to metal and fibers. Previously, China's high-end nitrile rubber mainly relied on imports.
The project adopts complete process technology independently developed by PetroChina Petrochemical Research Institute and Lanzhou Petrochemical. Construction began in January 2025, mechanical completion was achieved on May 8, 2026, and successful startup on July 4, 2026. After reaching full capacity, the plant will help alleviate supply bottlenecks in the high-end special rubber market and promote domestic substitution in downstream high-end manufacturing.
Currently, Lanzhou Petrochemical's nitrile rubber annual capacity has reached 100,000 tons, with domestic market share exceeding 40%. In September 2025, Lanzhou Petrochemical's nitrile rubber was exported to the European market for the first time.
Market Impact: The plant's operation marks an important breakthrough in China's high-end special rubber sector, expected to reduce dependence on imported products and positively impact the domestic plastics and rubber industry chain.
