Advancing flexibility between batch and continuous elastomer production
18 May 2026
Technical article by Dr. Walter Ramirez of Innventik focuses on the capabilities of compact plug-flow pre-polymerisation reactors
Santander, Spain - The elastomer and rubber industry is entering a period of increasing technological pressure. Producers are expected to improve sustainability, reduce emissions and energy consumption, increase operational flexibility, and simultaneously deliver more differentiated materials with tighter quality specifications.
Many synthetic rubber plants currently in operation were originally designed decades ago and continue to rely on process concepts that, although robust, present important limitations regarding efficiency, flexibility, and process control.
As I discussed previously in this journal (ERJ report), the industry must accelerate the adoption of advanced process technologies capable of improving flexibility, reducing environmental impact, and enabling greater operational performance.
Among the most important opportunities for innovation is the implementation of reactor technologies capable of bridging the gap between traditional batch polymerisation and continuous operation.
Read the full Technical Paper
