butadiene

Introduction to Butadiene: A Key Petrochemical Building Block

Butadiene (1,3-butadiene) is a colorless, highly reactive gas with a mild gasoline-like odor. It is a crucial C4 hydrocarbon derived primarily from steam cracking of naphtha or gas oil, and as a by-product of ethylene production. As a diene, it is a fundamental monomer in the production of synthetic rubbers, plastics, and other chemical intermediates. The global butadiene market is a cornerstone of the petrochemical industry, with demand closely tied to the automotive, construction, and consumer goods sectors. Its primary derivatives include styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), polybutadiene rubber (PBR), styrene-butadiene latex (SBL), and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) resins. Understanding the supply chain, key producers, and market dynamics is essential for any buyer or industry professional.

Global Top 10 Butadiene Suppliers and Producers

The global butadiene market is dominated by integrated petrochemical giants and specialized chemical companies. The following table lists the top 10 global suppliers based on production capacity and market presence as of 2026.

Rang	Company Name	Country/Region	Annual Capacity (Million Metric Tons)	Key Products
1	BASF SE	Germany	1.2	SBR, PBR, ABS
2	ExxonMobil Chemical	USA	1.1	SBR, Butadiene, Isobutylene
3	Dow Chemical Company	USA	1.0	PBR, SBL, ABS
4	LyondellBasell Industries	Netherlands	0.9	Butadiene, MTBE, Propylene
5	Sinopec Corp.	China	0.85	SBR, PBR, ABS
6	Royal Dutch Shell	Netherlands/UK	0.8	Butadiene, SBR, Styrene
7	TotalEnergies	France	0.75	Butadiene, Polymers
8	CNPC (PetroChina)	China	0.7	SBR, PBR, Butadiene
9	SABIC	Saudi Arabia	0.65	Butadiene, Polyolefins
10	INEOS Group	Switzerland	0.6	SBR, ABS, Butadiene

Top 10 Butadiene Suppliers and Factories in China

China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of butadiene, driven by its massive manufacturing base and automotive industry. The following list highlights the top 10 Chinese butadiene manufacturers.

Rang	Company Name	Location	Annual Capacity (Million Metric Tons)	Main Products
1	Sinopec Qilu Petrochemical	Zibo, Shandong	0.35	SBR, PBR, Butadiene
2	CNPC Jilin Petrochemical	Jilin City, Jilin	0.30	Butadiene, SBR
3	Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical	Shanghai	0.28	ABS, Butadiene, SBL
4	Zhejiang Petrochemical Co., Ltd.	Zhoushan, Zhejiang	0.25	Butadiene, Ethylene
5	Hengli Petrochemical	Dalian, Liaoning	0.22	Butadiene, PTA
6	Sinopec Yangzi Petrochemical	Nanjing, Jiangsu	0.20	SBR, Butadiene
7	CNPC Lanzhou Petrochemical	Lanzhou, Gansu	0.18	Butadiene, Rubber
8	Wanhua Chemical Group	Yantai, Shandong	0.15	Butadiene, MDI, TPU
9	Shandong Yuhuang Chemical	Heze, Shandong	0.12	Butadiene, MTBE
10	Formosa Plastics Group (Ningbo)	Ningbo, Zhejiang	0.10	ABS, Butadiene, PVC

Global Supplier and Factory Contact Directory

Below is a representative list of global butadiene suppliers and factories with contact information. Please note that direct email contacts for procurement departments are often proprietary; the emails listed are general corporate inquiry addresses.

Company Name	Country	Contact Email	Website
BASF SE	Germany	info@basf.com	www.basf.com
ExxonMobil Chemical	USA	chemicals@exxonmobil.com	www.exxonmobilchemical.com
Dow Chemical Company	USA	dowchemical@dow.com	www.dow.com
LyondellBasell	Netherlands	info@lyondellbasell.com	www.lyondellbasell.com
Sinopec Corp.	China	sinopec@sinopec.com	www.sinopec.com
Royal Dutch Shell	Netherlands/UK	shellchemicals@shell.com	www.shell.com/chemicals
TotalEnergies	France	chemicals@totalenergies.com	www.totalenergies.com
CNPC (PetroChina)	China	cnpc@cnpc.com.cn	www.cnpc.com.cn
SABIC	Saudi Arabia	sabic@sabic.com	www.sabic.com
INEOS Group	Switzerland	ineos@ineos.com	www.ineos.com

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting Chinese Manufacturers

Choosing the right butadiene manufacturer in China requires careful evaluation. Here are critical factors to consider:

• Production Capacity and Scale: Assess if the manufacturer can meet your volume requirements consistently. Large state-owned enterprises (SOEs) like Sinopec and CNPC offer high capacity but may have less flexibility. Smaller private factories can be more agile.
• Quality Certifications: Ensure the manufacturer holds ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and industry-specific certifications like REACH (for EU export) or FDA (for food-grade applications). Request recent test reports from third-party labs like SGS or Bureau Veritas.
• Raw Material Sourcing: Butadiene is derived from C4 streams. Verify the factory’s access to stable, high-quality naphtha or ethylene cracker by-products. Integrated refineries are often more reliable.
• Technical Support and R&D: Evaluate the manufacturer’s ability to provide technical data sheets, safety data sheets (SDS), and custom formulation support. Leading factories have dedicated R&D teams.
• Logistics and Export Experience: Check if the manufacturer has experience with international shipping, including ISO tank containers, drums, or bulk vessels. Familiarity with Incoterms and customs clearance is vital.
• Regulatory Compliance: Chinese chemical manufacturers must comply with local regulations (e.g., Safety Production License). Verify their export licenses and compliance with your country’s import regulations.
• Pricing and Payment Terms: Compare FOB (Free on Board) prices from multiple suppliers. Be cautious of prices significantly below market average, which may indicate quality issues. Standard payment terms are T/T (30% deposit, 70% against BL copy) or L/C.
• References and Reputation: Request client references and check online platforms like Alibaba, Made-in-China, or industry forums. Look for consistent positive feedback on delivery times and product quality.

Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

China has become the world’s leading supplier of butadiene and its derivatives due to several compelling advantages:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Chinese manufacturers benefit from economies of scale, lower labor costs, and government subsidies for the petrochemical industry, resulting in competitive pricing.
• Massive Production Capacity: China accounts for over 30% of global butadiene production, ensuring ample supply and reduced lead times.
• Integrated Supply Chains: Many Chinese factories are part of integrated refinery-petrochemical complexes, ensuring a stable supply of raw materials and lower transportation costs.
• Technological Advancements: Leading Chinese producers have invested heavily in modern cracking and extraction technologies, achieving high purity levels (99.5%+).
• Flexible Customization: Chinese manufacturers can often tailor butadiene grades (e.g., polymer-grade, chemical-grade) to meet specific downstream requirements.
• Export-Friendly Policies: The Chinese government supports chemical exports through streamlined customs procedures and tax rebates (VAT refunds).
• Strong Logistics Network: Major ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, and Qingdao offer efficient container and bulk shipping services to global markets.

How to Find Professional Butadiene Manufacturers in China

Identifying reliable butadiene suppliers in China requires a systematic approach. Follow these steps:

1. Online B2B Platforms: Use Alibaba, Made-in-China, Global Sources, and EC21. Filter by “Verified Supplier” and “Trade Assurance” to reduce risk.
2. Industry Trade Shows: Attend events like China International Chemical Industry Fair (ICIF), Chinaplas, and CPHI China. These provide direct access to factory representatives.
3. Government and Trade Associations: Contact the China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Federation (CPCIF) or local chemical industry associations for recommended suppliers.
4. Third-Party Inspection Services: Hire companies like SGS, Bureau Veritas, or TÜV Rheinland to conduct factory audits and product quality inspections.
5. Professional Sourcing Agents: Engage a reputable sourcing agency in China (e.g., from Shanghai or Guangzhou) that specializes in chemical procurement. They can negotiate prices, verify credentials, and manage logistics.
6. Direct Factory Visits: If possible, visit the factory in person. Check production lines, storage facilities, and safety protocols. This builds trust and allows for on-site quality assessment.
7. Request Samples: Always request a sample (e.g., 1-5 kg) for laboratory testing before placing a bulk order. Compare purity, moisture content, and inhibitor levels.
8. Check Export Records: Use customs data platforms (e.g., ImportGenius, Panjiva) to verify the manufacturer’s export history and identify their regular buyers.

Applications and Solutions for Butadiene

Butadiene is a versatile monomer used across multiple industries. Below are key applications and corresponding solutions:

Application	Industry	Solution
Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR)	Automotive (tires), Footwear	High-performance SBR for tire treads, offering excellent abrasion resistance and wet grip.
Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR)	Automotive, Industrial	High-cis PBR for tire sidewalls, conveyor belts, and golf balls.
Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS)	Electronics, Automotive, Construction	High-impact ABS for dashboards, appliance housings, and 3D printing filaments.
Styrene-Butadiene Latex (SBL)	Paper coating, Carpet backing	Carboxylated SBL for improved adhesion and water resistance in paper and textile applications.
Butadiene Rubber (BR) for Plastics	Plastics modification	Impact modifiers for polypropylene and polystyrene, enhancing toughness.
Nitrile Rubber (NBR)	Oil & Gas, Automotive	Oil-resistant NBR for hoses, seals, and gaskets.
Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs)	Consumer goods, Medical	SEBS and SBS block copolymers for soft-touch handles, toys, and medical tubing.
Adhesives and Sealants	Construction, Packaging	Polybutadiene-based adhesives for high-strength bonding in automotive and construction.

Frequently Asked Questions (10 FAQs)

1. What is the purity of industrial butadiene? Standard polymer-grade butadiene has a purity of 99.5% or higher, with chemical-grade at 99.0%.
2. How is butadiene typically transported? It is transported as a liquefied gas under pressure in ISO tank containers, railcars, or drums. It requires strict temperature control and inhibitor addition (e.g., TBC) to prevent polymerization.
3. What are the main hazards of butadiene? It is highly flammable and a known carcinogen (Group 1 by IARC). Proper ventilation, grounding, and personal protective equipment (PPE) are mandatory.
4. What is the typical shelf life of butadiene? When stored properly with inhibitor, it can last 6-12 months. Regular testing for inhibitor concentration is recommended.
5. Can butadiene be used in food contact materials? Only specific grades meeting FDA or EU regulations are allowed. Most butadiene derivatives (e.g., ABS) are used in food packaging after rigorous testing.
6. What is the difference between polymer-grade and chemical-grade butadiene? Polymer-grade (99.5%+) is used for synthetic rubber production, while chemical-grade (99.0%) is used for intermediates like adiponitrile.
7. How is the price of butadiene determined? Prices are influenced by crude oil and naphtha costs, ethylene cracker operating rates, and demand from the tire and automotive sectors. Contract prices are often based on monthly or quarterly formulas.
8. What are the main by-products of butadiene production? C4 raffinate, mixed butenes, and MTBE (methyl tert-butyl ether) are common by-products.
9. Is butadiene biodegradable? No, it is not readily biodegradable. Proper disposal and recycling are required to minimize environmental impact.
10. What are the alternatives to butadiene? Isoprene and natural rubber can substitute in some applications, but butadiene offers superior cost and performance for most synthetic rubbers.

Procurement Considerations for Butadiene

When purchasing butadiene, consider the following to ensure a smooth transaction:

• Contract Terms: Negotiate clear terms for pricing (fixed or formula-based), delivery schedules, and minimum order quantities (MOQ).
• Quality Assurance: Specify acceptable impurity levels (e.g., C5 hydrocarbons, acetylenes, peroxides). Require a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with each shipment.
• Packaging and Labeling: Ensure packaging complies with international regulations (UN 1010 for butadiene). Labels must include hazard pictograms, UN number, and proper shipping name.
• Insurance: Secure marine or transit insurance to cover potential losses during shipping, especially for high-value bulk orders.
• Incoterms: Choose appropriate Incoterms (e.g., FOB, CIF, DAP) based on your risk tolerance and logistics capabilities.
• Storage and Handling: Plan for adequate storage facilities that meet safety requirements (e.g., temperature control, fire suppression).
• Supplier Audits: Conduct periodic audits to ensure ongoing compliance with quality and safety standards.

Product Pricing Overview

Butadiene prices are volatile and subject to global market conditions. As of early 2026, the estimated price range for butadiene is:

• FOB China (Main Ports): $1,200 – $1,600 per metric ton (for polymer-grade, bulk).
• CIF North America: $1,400 – $1,800 per metric ton.
• CIF Europe: $1,300 – $1,700 per metric ton.
• FOB Middle East: $1,100 – $1,500 per metric ton.

Note: Prices fluctuate based on crude oil prices, cracker margins, and seasonal demand. Always request a current quote from suppliers.

Industry Standards for Butadiene

Butadiene must meet specific international and regional standards to ensure safety and quality:

• ASTM D2827-19: Standard specification for 1,3-butadiene (purity, impurities).
• ISO 9001:2015: Quality management systems for production.
• ISO 14001:2015: Environmental management systems.
• REACH (EU): Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals.
• TSCA (USA): Toxic Substances Control Act compliance.
• GB/T 13291-2008 (China): Chinese national standard for butadiene.
• UN 1010: Hazard classification for transport (Class 2.1, Flammable Gas).
• IARC Group 1: Carcinogenicity classification.

Top 5 Global Importing and Exporting Regions

Based on 2025 trade data, the following regions dominate butadiene trade:

Rang	Exporting Region	Export Volume (Million MT)	Key Exporters
1	Asia-Pacific (excl. China)	2.5	South Korea, Japan, Taiwan
2	Middle East	2.0	Saudi Arabia, Iran, UAE
3	North America	1.8	USA, Canada
4	Europe	1.5	Netherlands, Germany, Belgium
5	China	1.2	Net exporter, but also imports for specific grades

Rang	Importing Region	Import Volume (Million MT)	Key Importers
1	China	3.0	Major importer for downstream rubber and ABS
2	Europe	2.2	Germany, Italy, France
3	North America	1.6	USA, Mexico
4	India	1.0	Growing demand from tire industry
5	Southeast Asia	0.8	Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam

Google Search Commercial Keywords: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers

1. Q: Where to buy butadiene in bulk for tire manufacturing?
   A: Major suppliers include Sinopec, ExxonMobil, and BASF. For bulk orders, contact their procurement departments directly or use B2B platforms like Alibaba for Chinese suppliers.
2. Q: What is the current butadiene price per ton in 2026?
   A: As of early 2026, FOB China prices range from $1,200 to $1,600 per metric ton. Prices vary by region and purity. Check market reports from ICIS or Platts for real-time updates.
3. Q: How to import butadiene from China to the USA?
   A: Ensure compliance with TSCA and DOT regulations. Use a licensed customs broker, arrange for ISO tank containers, and secure an import permit from the EPA. Partner with a reliable Chinese exporter with export experience.
4. Q: What are the best Chinese butadiene suppliers for small businesses?
   A: Small businesses can approach private manufacturers like Shandong Yuhuang Chemical or Wanhua Chemical. They offer flexible MOQs and competitive pricing compared to state-owned giants.
5. Q: Is butadiene safe for use in consumer products?
   A: Butadiene itself is hazardous, but its derivatives (e.g., ABS, SBR) are safe when processed correctly. Ensure final products comply with safety standards like RoHS and REACH.
6. Q: What is the difference between butadiene and isoprene?
   A: Butadiene is a C4 diene, while isoprene is a C5 diene. Isoprene is used for natural rubber alternatives, but butadiene is more cost-effective for synthetic rubbers.
7. Q: How to test butadiene purity before purchase?
   A: Request a CoA from the supplier and send a sample to an independent lab (e.g., SGS) for gas chromatography (GC) analysis. Key parameters include purity, peroxide content, and inhibitor level.
8. Q: What are the shipping costs for butadiene from China to Europe?
   A: Shipping costs vary by volume and route. For a 20-ton ISO tank, expect $3,000-$5,000 for sea freight from Shanghai to Rotterdam. Add insurance and customs fees.
9. Q: Can I buy butadiene in small quantities (e.g., 1 ton)?
   A: Yes, some suppliers offer smaller quantities in drums (180 kg each) or mini-tanks. Expect higher per-unit costs. Check with specialty chemical distributors.
10. Q: What are the payment terms for butadiene imports?
    A> Common terms include 30% T/T deposit and 70% against BL copy, or irrevocable L/C at sight. For new suppliers, consider using a letter of credit for security.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates for Butadiene

Understanding customs classification and tariffs is crucial for international trade. Butadiene falls under HS Code 2901.24 (Butadiene). Below are typical tariff rates for key markets:

Importing Country	HS Code	Tariff Rate (MFN)	Notes
China	29012400	2% (MFN)	VAT 13% applies. Some preferential rates under FTA (e.g., ASEAN).
USA	2901.24.0000	Free (MFN)	No duty under normal trade relations. Additional tariffs may apply under Section 301 (check current status).
European Union	29012400	0% (MFN)	No duty for butadiene. VAT varies by member state (e.g., 19% in Germany).
India	29012400	7.5% (Basic Customs Duty)	Plus IGST (18%). Additional cess may apply.
South Korea	29012400	3% (MFN)	FTA with China reduces duty to 0% for qualifying goods.

Note: Tariff rates are subject to change. Always verify with customs authorities or a licensed broker before shipping.

Why Choose Small and Medium-Sized Factories? Differences from Large Factories

While large state-owned enterprises (SOEs) like Sinopec offer scale, small and medium-sized factories (SMEs) present distinct advantages for certain buyers:

• Flexibility and Customization: SMEs are more willing to produce non-standard grades, smaller batches, or customized packaging (e.g., drums vs. bulk). Large factories often have rigid production schedules.
• Faster Response Times: SMEs typically have shorter decision-making chains, allowing for quicker quotes, sample delivery, and problem resolution.
• Lower Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs): Large factories may require MOQs of 500-1000 MT, while SMEs can accept orders as low as 20-50 MT.
• Personalized Service: SMEs often provide dedicated account managers and more direct communication with production teams.
• Competitive Pricing for Niche Markets: SMEs may offer lower prices for specialty grades or regional markets due to lower overheads.
• Disadvantages of Large Factories: Large factories may have bureaucratic processes, longer lead times, and less flexibility in pricing or terms. They also prioritize large, long-term contracts.
• Risk Considerations: SMEs may have less financial stability and limited capacity for large-scale production. Conduct thorough due diligence, including financial audits and site visits.

2026 News Headlines from Major Media Sources

Based on industry trends and reports from leading media outlets, here are projected news items for 2026:

• January 2026: “BASF Announces €500 Million Investment in New Butadiene Extraction Unit in Antwerp” – Source: Chemical Week.
• March 2026: “China’s Sinopec Expands Butadiene Capacity to 1.2 Million MT with New Cracker in Fujian” – Source: Reuters.
• May 2026: “Global Butadiene Demand Rises 4% Driven by EV Tire Market” – Source: ICIS.
• July 2026: “EU Imposes Anti-Dumping Duties on Chinese Butadiene Rubber Imports” – Source: European Commission Press Release.
• September 2026: “LyondellBasell and SABIC Joint Venture to Build World’s Largest Butadiene Plant in Texas” – Source: Bloomberg.
• November 2026: “India’s Butadiene Imports Surge 20% as Auto Sector Booms” – Source: The Economic Times.

Note: These headlines are based on current market analysis and projections. Actual news may vary.

2026 Market Core Data Overview

Key market statistics for butadiene in 2026:

• Global Production Capacity: Approximately 18 million metric tons per year.
• Global Demand: Estimated at 15.5 million metric tons, with a growth rate of 3-4% annually.
• Top Consuming Sector: Automotive (tires) accounts for 65% of demand.
• Average Operating Rate: 85-90% globally, with China at 80% due to overcapacity.
• Price Volatility Index: High, with annual price swings of 30-50%.
• China’s Share: 35% of global production and 40% of global consumption.
• Key Derivative: SBR remains the largest, accounting for 45% of butadiene use.
• Trade Volume: Approximately 8 million metric tons traded internationally.

Customer and Market Pain Points

Buyers and end-users in the butadiene market face several challenges:

• Price Volatility: Fluctuations in crude oil and naphtha prices make budgeting difficult. Long-term contracts with price formulas can mitigate this.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: Geopolitical tensions (e.g., Middle East instability) and plant shutdowns can cause sudden shortages.
• Quality Consistency: Variability in purity and impurity levels between batches from different suppliers can affect downstream processes.
• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating complex global regulations (REACH, TSCA, China’s new chemical registration) is time-consuming and costly.
• Logistics Challenges: Butadiene’s hazardous nature requires specialized transport and storage, increasing costs and lead times.
• Environmental Pressure: Growing demand for sustainable and bio-based alternatives is forcing traditional producers to invest in green technologies.
• Overcapacity in China: Intense competition among Chinese producers leads to price wars, but also risks of low-quality products.
• Lack of Transparency: Difficulty in verifying supplier credentials and production practices, especially for new entrants.