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CarCareTruthProducts · Ranked

Polybutene

  • Polymers
  • CAS 9003-29-6
  • IUPAC: Polyisobutylene

Polybutene (CAS 9003-29-6) appears in 1 of the 1,812 car-care products CarCareTruth tracks (as of June 2026).

Inert synthetic polymer. No health hazards. Used in chewing gum and food-grade lubricants.

Polybutene is the synthetic rubber/polymer that forms the matrix of detailing clay bars. It's tacky enough to grab embedded contaminants (iron particles, tree sap, overspray) from paint surfaces but soft enough to glide with proper lubrication.

Completely non-toxic — the same polymer family is used in chewing gum base and food-grade machinery lubricants. No chemical hazard, no inhalation concern, no skin irritation.

Health & environment profile

VOC
no
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
no
Biodegradable
no
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
yes
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
4/5
Purpose: Clay bar matrix (contaminant capture medium)

Common questions about Polybutene

What is Polybutene used for in car care?
Clay bar matrix (contaminant capture medium)
Is Polybutene a VOC?
No. Polybutene is not classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
Is Polybutene on California's Proposition 65 list?
No. Polybutene is not on California's Proposition 65 list.

1 product contain this

Related

Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.